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Yoga Vashishtha 2.13.61–70
(Living with Tranquility as the Essence of a meaningful existence)
श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।
मातरीव परं यान्ति विषमाणि मृदूनि च।
विश्वासमिह भूतानि सर्वाणि शमशालिनि ॥ ६१ ॥
न रसायनपानेन न लक्ष्म्यालिङ्गनेन च ।
तथा सुखमवाप्नोति शमेनान्तर्यथा मनः ॥ ६२ ॥
सर्वाधिव्याधिचलितं क्रान्तं तृष्णावरत्रया।
मनः शमामृतासेकैः समाश्वासय राघव ॥ ६३ ॥
यत्करोषि यदश्नासि शमशीतलया धिया ।
तत्रातिस्वदते स्वादु नेतरत्तात मानसे ॥ ६४ ॥
शमामृतरसाच्छन्नं मनो यामेति निर्वृतिम् ।
छिन्नान्यपि तयाङ्गानि मन्ये रोहन्ति राघव ॥ ६५ ॥
न पिशाचा न रक्षांसि न दैत्या न च शत्रवः ।
न च व्याघ्रभुजङ्गा वा द्विषन्ति शमशालिनम् ॥ ६६ ॥
सुसंनद्धसमस्ताङ्गं प्रशमामृतवर्मणा।
वेधयन्ति न दुःखानि शरा वज्रशिलामिव ॥ ६७ ॥
न तथा शोभते राजा अप्यन्तःपुरसंस्थितः।
समया स्वच्छया बुद्ध्या यथोपशमशीलया ॥ ६८ ॥
प्राणात्प्रियतरं दृष्ट्वा तुष्टिमेति न वै जनः।
यामायाति जनः शान्तिमवलोक्य शमाशयम् ॥ ६९ ॥
समया शमशालिन्या वृत्त्या यः साधु वर्तते ।
अभिनन्दितया लोके जीवतीह स नेतरः ॥ ७० ॥
Maharishi Vashishta said:
2.13.61: All beings, whether in difficult or gentle circumstances, attain the Supreme State through trust in the one endowed with Tranquility.
2.13.62: Neither by drinking elixirs nor by embracing wealth does the mind attain such happiness as it does through Inner Tranquility.
2.13.63: O Raghava, comfort the mind, which is afflicted by all diseases and overwhelmed by the fever of desire, with the nectar-like essence of Tranquility.
2.13.64: Whatever you do or consume, when done with a cool and Tranquil intellect, becomes exceedingly delightful, O dear one, unlike anything else in the mind.
2.13.65: A mind immersed in the nectar-like essence of Tranquility attains Perfect Peace, and I believe, O Raghava, even severed limbs would grow back through it.
2.13.66: Neither demons, nor evil spirits, nor enemies, nor tigers, nor serpents harbor enmity toward one who is endowed with Tranquility.
2.13.67: One whose entire being is well-armored with the nectar-like shield of Tranquility is not pierced by sorrows, just as arrows cannot penetrate a diamond rock.
2.13.68: Even a king residing in his inner palace does not shine as brightly as one who is adorned with a Pure and Tranquil intellect through the practice of calmness.
2.13.69: People do not find as much satisfaction in seeing even the most beloved as they do in beholding one whose heart is established in Tranquility.
2.13.70: He who lives virtuously with a Tranquil and Pure disposition is truly celebrated in the world and lives happily, unlike others.
Summary of the Teachings:
The teachings of these verses from the Yoga Vasishta emphasize the Supreme importance of cultivating Inner Tranquility (shama) as the foundation for true happiness, spiritual growth, and Realization. The verses, spoken by Sage Vasishta to Lord Rama, highlight that Tranquility is not merely a state of mind but a transformative force that surpasses external pleasures, wealth, or achievements. By fostering a calm and composed intellect, one can transcend the afflictions of desire and worldly suffering, attaining a state of profound Peace and contentment. This Inner Stillness is portrayed as a universal refuge, accessible to all beings regardless of their circumstances, and a pathway to the Ultimate Spiritual Goal.
The verses underscore that Tranquility is more effective than any external remedy or material gain in bringing happiness to the mind. While elixirs or wealth may offer temporary satisfaction, only Inner Calmness provides lasting Joy and stability. The metaphor of the mind as a patient afflicted by the "fever of desire" illustrates how desires agitate and destabilize one’s mental state. By soothing the mind with the "nectar" of Tranquility, one can restore balance and find relief from the restlessness caused by worldly attachments. This teaching encourages a shift from external pursuits to internal cultivation, emphasizing that true contentment arises from within.
Furthermore, the verses suggest that a tranquil mind is not only a source of personal peace but also a shield against external adversities. Tranquility is depicted as an impregnable armor that protects one from sorrows, much like arrows failing to pierce a diamond rock. This protective quality extends to external threats as well, as the verses claim that neither demons, enemies, nor wild creatures harbor ill will toward a person steeped in calmness. This reflects the idea that a tranquil disposition radiates harmony, disarming hostility and fostering goodwill in the external world.
The teachings also elevate Tranquility as a mark of true nobility and radiance. A king in his palace, surrounded by luxury, pales in comparison to one who embodies a calm and pure intellect. This comparison underscores that true greatness lies not in external status but in the inner quality of peace. The verses further suggest that encountering a tranquil person brings unparalleled satisfaction to others, surpassing even the joy of meeting a beloved. This highlights the magnetic and uplifting influence of a calm mind, which not only benefits the individual but also inspires and elevates those around them.
Finally, the verses advocate for a life rooted in virtuous conduct and tranquil disposition, asserting that such a life is celebrated and fulfilling. Living with Tranquility is portrayed as the essence of a meaningful existence, distinguishing the wise from others who remain entangled in worldly pursuits. The repeated emphasis on shama as a nectar-like essence that heals, protects, and elevates underscores its centrality in the spiritual path. These teachings collectively guide the seeker toward cultivating Inner Peace as the key to overcoming suffering, achieving harmony, and living a life of true fulfillment and Universal respect.
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