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Knowledge liberates

CHENNAI: Scriptural knowledge is a deep ocean and it is not easy to unravel the truths it holds. Intellectual proficiency in the scriptures can be gained through a thorough training or scholarship but this does not guarantee enlightenment since this requires the ability to understand and realise the knowledge of the higher truths as an experience. It is believed that the essence of the Vedas was revealed to the Rishis when they were engaged in deep contemplation. Their revelations have been handed down to posterity, and mankind has been engaged in trying to pursue, understand and imbibe these truths.

In a lecture, Sri Goda Venkateswara Sastrigal pointed out the value of the Lord’s incarnations (to re-establish Dharma whenever there was a decline in Dharma and rise in Adharma) that have served to enlighten mankind about the Supreme Truth. Though the Supreme Brahman has no form or qualities (Nirguna Brahman) He assumes many forms (Saguna Brahman) to destroy the evil forces and make Himself accessible to His devotees. Great preceptors have played a significant role in clarifying the spiritual knowledge of the scriptures and in prompting mankind to cultivate Jnana and Bhakti that are vital for salvation. Siva instructed the sages Sanaka, Sananda and others through sheer silence.

But since ordinary human beings could not understand the profound thought thus taught, it is believed that He incarnated as Adi Sankara. This preceptor wrote commentaries on the Upanishads, the Brahma Sutra and the Bhagavad Gita (together known as the Prasthana Traya), the three basic scriptural texts, for the benefit of mankind. He also inculcated Bhakti as an essential feature in one’s spiritual attainments. Adi Sankara’s disciples have carried the tradition of Jnana and Bhakti. Totaka, one of his disciples, exemplifies the Guru Sishya relationship and his hymn the Totaka Ashtaka is a tribute to the great preceptor’s role in imparting to humanity the invaluable Jnana that liberates.

The only antidote for the misery of Samsara being Jnana, the disciple realises the compassion of the preceptor who is able to provide this panacea.

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