Chapter 2.14, Verses 46–54

Yoga Vashishtha 2.14.46–54

(A life guided by Discernment brings Peace, Clarity and Purpose)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

वरं कर्दममेकत्वं मलकीटकता वरम् ।

वरमन्धगुहाहित्वं न नरस्याविचारिता ॥ ४६ ॥

सर्वानर्थनिजावासं सर्वसाधुतिरस्कृतम् ।

सर्वदौस्थित्यसीमान्तमविचारं परित्यजेत् ॥ ४७ ॥

नित्यं विचारयुक्तेन भवितव्यं महात्मना।

तथान्धकूपे पततां विचारो ह्यवलम्बनम् ॥ ४८ ॥

स्वयमेवात्मनात्मानमवष्टभ्य विचारतः ।

संसारमोहजलधेस्तारयेत्स्वमनोमृगम् ॥ ४९ ॥

कोऽहं कथमयं दोषः संसाराख्य उपागतः।

न्यायेनेति परामर्शो विचार इति कथ्यते ॥ ५० ॥

अन्धान्धमोहसुधनं चिरं दुःखाय केवलम्।

कृतं शिलाया हृदयं दुर्मतेश्चाविचारिणः ॥ ५१ ॥

भावाभावग्रहोत्सर्गदृशामिह हि राघव ।

न विचारादृते तत्त्वं ज्ञायते साधु किंचन ॥ ५२ ॥

विचाराज्ज्ञायते तत्त्वं तत्त्वाद्विश्रान्तिरात्मनि ।

अतो मनसि शान्तत्वं सर्वदुःखपरिक्षयः ॥ ५३ ॥

सफलता फलते भुवि कर्मणां प्रकटतां किल गच्छति उत्तमाम् ।

स्फुटविचारदृशैव विचारिता शमवते भवते च विरोचताम् ॥ ५४ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.14.46: It is better to be a lump of mud, a filthy insect, or to dwell in a dark cave than to be a person without Discernment.

2.14.47: One should abandon absence of Discernment, which is the root of all miseries, the rejection of all virtues, and the limit of all weaknesses.

2.14.48: A noble soul must always engage in Discernment, for Discernment is the only support for those falling into the dark well of Ignorance.

2.14.49: By relying on oneself and reflecting deeply, one should guide the mind, like a deer, across the ocean of worldly delusion.

2.14.50: The inquiry into "Who am I?" and "How did this flaw called samsara arise?" through proper reasoning is called Discernment.

2.14.51: The heart of a non-discerning fool, hardened like stone, is steeped in deep delusion and leads only to prolonged suffering.

2.14.52: O Raghu, without Discernment, no Truth or good can be known, as the mind clings to the acceptance or rejection of existence and non-existence.

2.14.53: Through Discernment, the Truth is Realized; from Truth comes Peace in the Self; thus, a Tranquil mind leads to the cessation of all suffering.

2.14.54: Actions bear fruit, and their highest fulfillment is achieved in this world only through clear Discernment, which brings Peace and makes one shine.

Summary of Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.14.46 to 2.14.54 emphasize the critical importance of Discernment (vichara) in overcoming Ignorance and achieving liberation from the cycle of samsara. The text begins by starkly contrasting a life without Discernment to States of Existence that are lowly or undesirable, such as being a lump of mud, an insect, or trapped in darkness. This sets the tone for the teaching that non-discernment is a root cause of suffering and a barrier to spiritual growth, far worse than even the most degraded physical conditions.

The teachings urge the abandonment of non-discernment, described as the source of all miseries and the rejection of virtues. Non-discernment confines one to a State of weakness and prevents the Realization of Higher Truths. 

Instead, the text advocates for constant engagement in Discernment, which acts as a lifeline for those trapped in the "dark well" of Ignorance. This Discernment is not passive but an active process of Self-Inquiry that enables one to navigate the delusions of the material world.

Central to these verses is the concept of wise reflection. The mind, likened to a deer lost in the ocean of samsara, must be guided through introspective questions such as "Who am I?" and "How did this cycle of Existence arise?" Such inquiry, rooted in proper reasoning, is defined as Discernment. This process is essential for breaking free from the hardened, stone-like state of a non-discerning mind, which is mired in delusion and perpetuates suffering.

The verses further explain that Discernment leads to the Realization of Truth, which in turn brings Inner Peace and the cessation of all suffering. A Tranquil mind, achieved through this process, is the ultimate antidote to the afflictions of worldly existence. The teachings emphasize that without Discernment, one cannot grasp the Truth or attain any meaningful good, as the mind remains entangled in dualities of existence and non-existence.

Finally, the verses highlight the practical benefits of Discernment, noting that it ensures the success of actions and leads to their highest fulfillment. A life guided by clear Discernment not only brings Peace but also allows one to shine with Clarity and Purpose. These teachings collectively underscore that Discernment is the cornerstone of spiritual progress, enabling one to transcend suffering, Realize the Self, and achieve lasting Tranquility.

Chapter 2.14, Verses 37–45

Yoga Vashishtha 2.14.37–45

(Mind refined by Discernment avoids the repetitive suffering of samsara)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

कोऽहं कस्य च संसार इत्यापद्यपि धीमता ।

चिन्तनीयं प्रयत्नेन सप्रतीकारमात्मना ॥ ३७ ॥

कार्यसंकटसंदेहं राजा जानाति राघव।

निष्फलं सफलं वापि विचारेणैव नान्यथा ॥ ३८ ॥

वेदवेदान्तस्रिद्धान्तस्थितयः स्थितिकारणम् ।

निर्णीयन्ते विचारेण दीपेन च भुवो निशि ॥ ३९ ॥

अनष्टमन्धकारेषु बहुतेजःस्वजिह्मितम् ।

पश्यत्यपि व्यवहितं विचारश्चारुलोचनम् ॥ ४० ॥

विवेकान्धो हि जात्यन्धः शोच्यः सर्वस्य दुर्मतिः ।

दिव्यचक्षुर्विवेकात्मा जयत्यखिलवस्तुषु ॥ ४१ ॥

परमात्ममयी मान्या महानन्दैकसाधिनी।

क्षणमेकं परित्याज्या न विचारचमत्कृतिः ॥ ४२ ॥

विचारचारुपुरुषो महतामपि रोचते ।

परिपक्वचमत्कारं सहकारफलं यथा ॥ ४३ ॥

विचारकान्तमतयो नानेकेषु पुनःपुनः ।

लुठन्ति दुःखश्वभ्रेषु ज्ञाताध्वगतयो नराः ॥ ४४ ॥

नच रौति तथा रोगी नानर्थशतजर्जरः।

अविचारविनष्टात्मा यथाऽज्ञः परिरोदिति ॥ ४५ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.14.37: The Wise should diligently reflect with effort: "Who am I, and whose is this cycle of existence?" This inquiry, when undertaken by oneself, leads to liberation from calamity.

2.14.38: O Raghava, a king understands the complexities and doubts of actions only through Discernment. Whether an action is fruitful or fruitless is determined solely by reflection, not otherwise.

2.14.39: The Truths established by the Vedas and Vedanta, which are the cause of stability, are discerned through reflection, just as a lamp illuminates the darkness of the night.

2.14.40: Even in the unvanquished darkness, where much radiance is obscured, reflection, like a beautiful eye, perceives even that which is veiled.

2.14.41: One blind to Discernment is like one born blind, pitiable and deluded in all matters. But the soul endowed with the Divine vision of Discernment triumphs over all things.

2.14.42: The reflection that leads to the Supreme Self, revered and the sole means to Supreme Bliss, should not be abandoned even for a moment, as it is a marvel of Consciousness.

2.14.43: A person refined by reflection is pleasing even to the great, like a fully ripened mango fruit that delights with its perfection.

2.14.44: Those whose minds are refined by reflection do not repeatedly fall into the painful pits of suffering, unlike those ignorant of the path who stumble again and again.

2.14.45: No patient cries out as much, nor is one afflicted by countless miseries as broken, as the ignorant soul destroyed by the absence of reflection wails in despair.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.14.37 to 2.14.45 emphasize the paramount importance of vichara (Self-Inquiry or Discernment) as a transformative tool for Spiritual Realization and understanding the Nature of Existence. The teachings urge the Wise to engage in deep reflection on fundamental questions such as "Who am I?" and "Whose is this cycle of existence?" This introspective process is presented as a deliberate and effortful practice that leads to liberation from the calamities of worldly life. By questioning the Self and the Nature of samsara 

(the cycle of birth and death), one can attain clarity and freedom from existential confusion, setting the foundation for Spiritual Awakening.

The text highlights that 

Discernment is essential for navigating the complexities of actions and their outcomes. Using the metaphor of a king, the verses suggest that only through thoughtful reflection can one distinguish between fruitful and fruitless endeavors. This underscores the idea that Wisdom is not derived from mere action or external knowledge but from an internal process of contemplation. Such Discernment is likened to a lamp that illuminates truth in the darkness of Ignorance, drawing from the authority of the Vedas and Vedanta to establish a stable understanding of Reality.

The teachings further illustrate the power of reflection to penetrate even the deepest ignorance, described as an unvanquished darkness. Reflection is portrayed as a "beautiful eye" that perceives hidden Truths, enabling one to see beyond superficial appearances. This capacity for Discernment is contrasted with the pitiable state of those who lack it, likened to being born blind. The verses assert that a person endowed with the "Divine Vision" of discernment can overcome all challenges and achieve mastery over worldly phenomena, emphasizing its role as a supreme intellectual and spiritual faculty.

The text elevates reflection as a revered practice that connects one to the Supreme Self and leads to Ultimate Bliss. It is described as a marvel of Consciousness that should never be abandoned, even momentarily, due to its transformative potential. A person refined by reflection is not only internally fulfilled but also becomes admirable to others, likened to a ripened fruit that naturally delights. This suggests that the practice of Discernment not only liberates the individual but also elevates their presence and influence in the world, making them a source of inspiration.

Finally, the verses contrast the fates of those who practice reflection with those who do not. A mind refined by Discernment avoids the repetitive suffering of samsara, while Ignorance leads to endless cycles of pain and despair. The ignorant, lacking reflection, are depicted as suffering more intensely than even the physically afflicted, underscoring the dire consequences of neglecting Self-Inquiry. Collectively, these verses advocate for a life of conscious reflection as the path to Wisdom, Realization, and triumph over the delusions of worldly existence.

Chapter 2.14, Verses 21–29

Yoga Vashishtha 2.14.21–29

(Practice Discernment - aka correct thinking, to transcend the delusions of the mind and attain Spiritual Realization)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

विविक्तं हि मनो जन्तोराशावैवश्यवर्जितम् ।

परां निर्वृतिमभ्येति पूर्णचन्द्र इवात्मनि ॥ २१ ॥

विवेकितोदिता देहे सर्वं शीतलयत्यलम्।

अलंकरोति चात्यन्तं ज्योत्स्नेव भुवनं यथा ॥ २२ ॥

परमार्थपताकाया धियो धवलचामरम् ।

विचारो राजते जन्तो रजन्यामिव चन्द्रमाः ॥ २३ ॥

विचारचारवो जीवा भासयन्तो दिशो दश ।

भान्ति भास्करवन्नूनं भूयो भवभयापहाः ॥ २४ ॥

बालस्य स्वमनोमोहकल्पितः प्राणहारकः।

रात्रौ नभसि वेतालो विचारेण विलीयते ॥ २५ ॥

सर्वं एव जगद्भावा अविचारेण चारवः ।

अविद्यमानसद्भावा विचारविशरारवः ॥ २६ ॥

पुंसो निजमनोमोहकल्पितोऽनल्पदुःखदः।

संसारचिरवेतालो विचारेण विलीयते ॥ २७ ॥

समं सुखं निराबाधमनन्तमनपाश्रयम्।

विद्धीमं केवलीभावं विचारोच्चतरोः फलम् ॥ २८ ॥

अचलस्थितितोदारा प्रकटाभोगतेजसा ।

तेन निष्कामतोदेति शीततेवेन्दुनोदिता ॥ २९ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.14.21: The mind of a Being, when detached and free from the bondage of desires, attains Supreme Peace, like the full moon resting in its own nature.

2.14.22: The discernment that arises in the body thoroughly cools everything and greatly adorns it, just as moonlight illuminates and beautifies the world.

2.14.23: The intellect, adorned with the white banner of Ultimate Truth, shines through discernment in a Being, like the moon glowing in the night.

2.14.24: Living Beings, through the practice of discernment, illuminate all ten directions, shining like the sun, dispelling the fear of worldly existence.

2.14.25: The terrifying ghost of delusion, conjured by the mind of an ignorant person in the darkness of the night, is dissolved through discernment.

2.14.26: All worldly phenomena, when unexamined, appear attractive but are unreal; through discernment, their illusory nature is revealed and dissolved.

2.14.27: The endless suffering caused by the mind’s delusion, like a long-standing ghost of worldly existence, is dissolved through discernment.

2.14.28: Know that the State of Pure Being—equanimous, Blissful, unobstructed, Infinite, and independent—is the fruit of the highest discernment.

2.14.29: From the Noble State of unwavering Stillness, radiant with the splendor of manifest enjoyment, arises a cool Tranquility, like that inspired by the moon.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.14.21 to 2.14.29 emphasize the transformative power of discernment (vichara) in achieving Spiritual Realization and Inner Peace. The text illustrates that a mind freed from desires and attachments attains a State of Supreme Tranquility, likened to the serene glow of a full moon. This detachment is not merely an absence of desire but a profound Clarity that allows one to rest in their True Nature, unburdened by the fluctuations of worldly cravings. The metaphor of the moon underscores the natural, effortless radiance of a purified mind, which is calm, self-contained, and at peace with itself.

Discernment is portrayed as a cooling and illuminating force, much like moonlight that soothes and beautifies the world. It purifies the body and mind, dispelling the heat of Ignorance and adorning the individual with Wisdom. The verses suggest that this process of discernment is not just introspective but has a universal impact, illuminating all directions like the sun. This radiant Clarity dispels the fears and anxieties tied to worldly existence, offering a path to Realization by revealing the impermanent and illusory nature of material phenomena.

The teachings further highlight the deceptive allure of the world when viewed through an unexamined mind. Ignorance creates delusions that manifest as fearsome entities, like ghosts conjured in the darkness of night. These delusions, born of mental constructs, cause suffering and perpetuate the cycle of samsara (worldly existence). However, through the practice of discernment, these illusions are dissolved, revealing their non-existence. The text emphasizes that what appears real and enticing in an unreflective state loses its hold when subjected to the scrutiny of wisdom.

The culmination of discernment is described as the State of “kevali bhava,” or Pure Being, characterized by Equanimity, Infinite Bliss, and Freedom from all obstructions. This state is independent, requiring no external support, and represents the Ultimate fruit of Spiritual Inquiry. The verses suggest that such a state is not fleeting but stable, like an unwavering foundation radiating with the splendor of realized truth. This Realization brings a cool, Tranquil Joy, akin to the soothing presence of moonlight, which arises naturally from a mind anchored in discernment.

In essence, these verses advocate for the practice of discernment as a means to transcend the delusions of the mind and attain Spiritual Realization. By cultivating a disciplined, introspective Awareness, one can dismantle the false constructs of the world, overcome suffering, and abide in a State of Pure, Blissful Being. The metaphors of the moon and sun serve to illustrate the illuminating and purifying effects of this practice, guiding the individual toward a life of Clarity, Peace, and Ultimate Freedom.

Chapter 2.14, Verses 11–20

Yoga Vashishtha 2.14.11–20

(Value of introspection and  perils of thoughtlessness in pursuit of meaningful and virtuous life)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

या विवेकविकासिन्यो मतयो महतामिह।

न ता विपदि मज्जन्ति तुम्बकानीव वारिणि ॥ ११ ॥

विचारोदयकारिण्या धिया व्यवहरन्ति ये।

फलानामत्युदाराणां भाजनं हि भवन्ति ते ॥ १२ ॥

मूर्खहृत्काननस्थानामाशा प्रथमरोधिनाम् ।

अविचारकरञ्जानां मञ्जर्यो दुःखरीतयः ॥ १३ ॥

कज्जलक्षोदमलिना मदिरामदधर्मिणी ।

अविचारमयी निद्रा यातु ते राघव क्षयम् ॥ १४ ॥

महापदतिदीर्घेषु सद्विचारपरो नरः ।

न निमज्जति मोहेषु तेजोराशिस्तमःस्विव ॥ १५ ॥

मानसे सरसि स्वच्छे विचारकमलोत्करः।

नूनं विकसितो यस्य हिमवानिव भाति सः ॥ १६ ॥

विचारविकला यस्य मतिर्मान्द्यमुपेयुषः ।

तस्योदेत्यशनिश्चन्द्रान्मुधा यक्षः शिशोरिव ॥ १७ ॥

दुःखखण्डकमस्थूलं विपन्नवलतामधुः।

राम दूरे परित्याज्यो निर्विवेको नराधमः ॥ १८ ॥

ये केचन दुरारम्भा दुराचारा दुराधयः ।

अविचारेण ते भान्ति वेतालास्तमसा यथा ॥ १९ ॥

अविचारिणमेकान्तवनद्रुम सधर्मकम्।

अक्षमं साधुकार्येषु दूरे कुरु रघूद्वह ॥ २०॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.14.11: The minds of the great, blossoming with discernment, do not sink in adversity, just as gourds do not sink in water.

2.14.12: Those who act with Wisdom born of reflection become recipients of exceedingly noble results.

2.14.13: The hopes of fools, rooted in the wilderness of their hearts and obstructed at the outset, yield buds of sorrow due to thoughtlessness.

2.14.14: May the sleep of Ignorance, dark as collyrium, intoxicating as liquor, and contrary to righteousness, be destroyed in you, O Rama.

2.14.15: A person devoted to proper reflection does not sink into delusion during great and prolonged calamities, just as a mass of light does not succumb to darkness.

2.14.16: One whose clear mental lake blooms with the lotuses of reflection shines like the Himalayan mountains.

2.14.17: The mind of one lacking reflection, fallen into dullness, gives rise to futile desires, like a goblin appearing to a child from the moon.

2.14.18: O Rama, completely abandon the ignorant person, who is a source of gross suffering and whose sweetness, like that of a fallen creeper, is lost.

2.14.19: Those who engage in harmful actions, wicked conduct, and evil thoughts shine falsely through Ignorance, like ghosts in the darkness.

2.14.20: O descendant of Raghu, keep far away the thoughtless one, akin to a solitary tree in a desolate forest, incapable of virtuous deeds.

Summary of Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.14.11 to 2.14.20, spoken by Sage Vasishta to Rama, emphasize the paramount importance of discernment (vichara) and reflective wisdom in leading a virtuous and fulfilling life. They contrast the outcomes of a mind guided by thoughtful reflection with one mired in ignorance and thoughtlessness. The teachings underscore that discernment acts as a buoyant force, preventing the Wise from sinking into adversity, much like gourds float on water. This metaphor highlights the resilience and clarity that arise from a mind cultivated through introspection, enabling individuals to navigate life’s challenges without being overwhelmed by delusion or despair.

The verses further elaborate that those who operate with Wisdom derived from reflection reap noble and fruitful outcomes. In contrast, the ignorant, whose minds are likened to a barren wilderness, foster hopes that lead only to sorrow due to their lack of discernment. This dichotomy illustrates the transformative power of thoughtful deliberation, which not only ensures success but also aligns one’s actions with righteousness. The imagery of a clear mental lake blooming with lotuses of reflection, as seen in verse 16, vividly portrays the beauty and radiance of a mind illuminated by Wisdom, likening it to the majestic Himalayas.

Ignorance is portrayed as a destructive force, akin to a dark, intoxicating sleep that obscures Truth and righteousness. Vasishta urges Rama to dispel this ignorance, emphasizing that a lack of reflection leads to futile desires and harmful actions. The comparison of thoughtless individuals to ghosts shining falsely in darkness or solitary trees in a desolate forest underscores their spiritual barrenness and incapacity for virtuous deeds. These metaphors serve as a warning against the perils of an unexamined life, which yields only suffering and delusion.

The teachings also carry a practical directive for Rama to distance himself from those who lack discernment. Such individuals, described as sources of gross suffering and incapable of good deeds, are to be avoided to preserve one’s own clarity and virtue. This advice reflects the broader yogic principle of cultivating sattvic (Pure) associations and environments that support spiritual growth. By steering clear of the ignorant and their destructive tendencies, one can maintain a focused pursuit of Wisdom and righteousness.

In essence, these verses advocate for a life rooted in reflective Wisdom as the foundation for resilience, moral conduct, and spiritual clarity. They caution against the pitfalls of Ignorance, which lead to sorrow and unrighteous actions, and encourage the cultivation of a discerning mind to achieve noble outcomes and inner radiance. Through vivid imagery and direct counsel, Vasishta imparts to Rama—and by extension, to all seekers—the timeless value of introspection and the rejection of thoughtlessness in the pursuit of a meaningful and virtuous life.