Chapter 1.1, Verses 9-13

Yoga Vāsiṣṭha 1.1.9 to 1.1.13

(a narrative unfolds involving a learned Brahmin named Kārūṇya and his father, Agniveśya, highlighting themes of duty, inaction, and the pursuit of Knowledge)

Verse 1.1.9:

अस्मिन्नर्थे पुरावृत्तमितिहासं वदामि ते।

कारुण्याख्यः पुरा कश्चिद्ब्राह्मणोऽधीतवेदकः ॥ ९ ॥

"In this context, I shall narrate an ancient historical incident. There was once a Brahmin named Kārūṇya, well-versed in the Vedas."

This verse introduces the character of Kārūṇya, emphasizing his scholarly background and mastery of Vedic knowledge. The mention of his name, derived from 'karuṇā' meaning compassion, may hint at his inherent nature or the qualities he embodies.

Verse 1.1.10:

अग्निवेश्यस्य पुत्रोऽभूद्वेदवेदाङ्गपारगः।

गुरोरधीतविद्यः सन्नाजगाम गृहं प्रति ॥ १०॥

"He was the son of Agniveśya and had mastered the Vedas and Vedāngas. Having completed his studies under his guru, he returned home."

This verse provides context about Kārūṇya's lineage, identifying him as the son of Agniveśya, and highlights his comprehensive education in the Vedas and their auxiliary disciplines. His return home signifies a transition from formal learning to practical application in life.

Verse 1.1.11:

तस्थावकर्मकृत्तूष्णीं संशयानो गृहे तदा।

अग्निवेश्यो विलोक्याथ पुत्रं कर्मविवर्जितम् ॥ ११ ॥

"He remained inactive at home, immersed in doubt and abstaining from actions. Observing his son's inaction, Agniveśya..."

Here, Kārūṇya's state of inaction and doubt is depicted, suggesting an internal conflict or existential crisis. His father's observation sets the stage for a forthcoming dialogue on duty and the nature of action.

Verse 1.1.12:

अग्निवेश्य उवाच ।

प्राह एतद्वचो निन्द्यं गुरुः पुत्रं हिताय च ।

किमेतत्पुत्र कुरुषे पालनं न स्वकर्मणः ॥ १२॥

"Agniveśya said: The Guru, for the benefit of his son, spoke these reproachful words: 'What is this, my son, that you are neglecting your own duties?'"

Agniveśya addresses his son's neglect of prescribed duties, emphasizing the importance of adhering to one's responsibilities. The reproach underscores a pedagogical approach aimed at guiding Kārūṇya back to the path of action.

Verse 1.1.13:

अकर्मनिरतः सिद्धिं कथं प्राप्स्यसि तद्वद ।

कर्मणोऽस्मान्निवृत्तेः किं कारणं तन्निवेद्यताम् ॥ १३ ॥

"Engaged in inaction, how will you attain success? Tell me, what is the reason for your cessation from action?"

Agniveśya questions the efficacy of inaction in achieving one's goals, probing into Kārūṇya's rationale for abandoning his duties. This inquiry reflects a deeper philosophical exploration of action, inaction, and their consequences.

Comparison with Vedic Texts

Similar themes are echoed in Vedic literature, emphasizing the significance of action and the consequences of inaction.

Bhagavad Gītā 3.8:

नियतं कुरु कर्म त्वं कर्म ज्यायो ह्यकर्मणः।

शरीरयात्रापि च ते न प्रसिद्ध्येदकर्मणः ॥

"Perform your prescribed duty, for action is better than inaction. Even the maintenance of your body would not be possible without action."

Ṛgveda 10.117.6:

नायमात्मा बलहीनेन लभ्यो न च प्रमादात्तपसो वाप्यलिङ्गात् ।

एतेनैवायातयत्यस्य सिद्दिः सत्येनैषा ब्रह्मवर्चस्येण ॥

"This soul cannot be attained by the weak, nor by heedlessness, nor without penance and renunciation. But by these means, the Seers attain that success which is the Supreme State of Brahm."

These verses collectively underscore the imperative of action and the pitfalls of inaction, resonating with the dialogue between Agniveśya and Kārūṇya in the Yoga Vāsiṣṭha.