Chapter 2.10, Verses 37–44

Yoga Vashishtha 2.10.37–44

(The Divine Mission of Maharishi Vashishta)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

ततो विदितवेद्यं मां निजां प्रकृतिमास्थितम् ।

स उवाच जगत्कर्ता वक्ता सकलकारणम् ॥ ३७ ॥

शापेनाज्ञपदं नीत्वा पृच्छकस्त्वं मया कृतः ।

पुत्रास्य ज्ञानसारस्य समस्तजनसिद्धये ॥ ३८ ॥

इदानीं शान्तशापस्त्वं परं बोधमुपागतः।

संस्थितोऽहमिवैकान्माऽकनक कनकादिवत् ॥ ३९ ॥

गच्छेदानीं महीपृष्ठे जम्बूद्वीपान्तरस्थितम् ।

साधो भरतवर्ष त्वं लोकानुग्रहहेतुना ॥ ४० ॥

तत्र क्रियाकाण्डपरास्त्वया पुत्र महाधिया ।

उपदेश्वाः क्रियाकाण्डक्रमेण क्रमशालिना ॥ ४१ ॥

विरर्क्ताचेत्ताश्च तथा महाप्राज्ञा विचारिणः ।

उपदेश्यास्त्वया साधो ज्ञानेनानन्ददायिना ॥ ४२ ॥

इति तेन नियुक्तोऽहं पित्रा कमलयोनिना ।

इह राघव तिष्ठामि यावद्भूतपरम्परा ॥ ४३ ॥

कर्तव्यमस्ति न ममेह हि किंचिदेव स्थातव्यमित्यतिमना भुवि संस्थितोऽस्मि ।

संशान्तया सततसुप्तधियेह वृत्या कार्य करोमि न च किंचिदहं करोमि ॥ ४४ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.10.37: Then, having known me as one who has Realized the Ultimate Truth and is established in my True Nature, he, the creator of the world and the speaker of all causes, spoke to me.

2.10.38: Due to a curse, you were brought to a state of Ignorance and made a questioner by me, O son, for the essence of Knowledge to benefit all people.

2.10.39: Now, with the curse lifted, you have attained Supreme Enlightenment, established like me, as gold remains gold even when fashioned into an ornament.

2.10.40: Go now to the surface of the earth, to the land of Bharata within Jambudvipa, O Sage, for the sake of uplifting humanity.

2.10.41: There, with your Great Wisdom, instruct those devoted to rituals in the proper sequence of ritualistic actions, guiding them methodically.

2.10.42: Similarly, instruct those with detached minds and the highly wise who are reflective, O Sage, with the Knowledge that bestows Bliss.

2.10.43: Thus, appointed by my father, the lotus-born (Brahma), I remain here, O Rama, as long as the chain of Beings persists.

2.10.44: I have no duty to perform here, yet I remain on earth with a mind free of desire; with a fully tranquil and ever-quiet intellect, I act without truly acting.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.10.37 to 2.10.44 encapsulate a profound dialogue where Sage Vasishta recounts his Divine Mission as assigned by Brahma, the Creator. In these verses, Vasishta describes how he was recognized by Brahma as one who has Realized the Ultimate Truth and is established in his True Nature. This recognition signifies Vasishta’s attainment of Self-Realization, where he abides in his essential, unchanging nature, likened to gold that retains its essence regardless of its form. The verses emphasize the theme of transcending Ignorance through Divine guidance and Realizing one’s Eternal, Unchanging Self, a cornerstone of Advaita Vedanta philosophy.

The narrative introduces the concept of a curse that temporarily placed Vasishta in a state of Ignorance, making him a questioner to serve a higher purpose. Brahma explains that this was orchestrated to enable Vasishta to spread the Essence of Knowledge for the benefit of humanity. This highlights a key teaching of the Yoga Vasishta: even apparent setbacks, like a curse, are part of a Divine plan to facilitate spiritual growth and service to others. The lifting of the curse signifies Vasishta’s return to Supreme Enlightenment, aligning him with the Ultimate Reality, where distinctions between the Self and the Divine dissolve, as illustrated by the metaphor of gold and its ornaments.

Brahma’s directive to Vasishta to go to Bharata within Jambudvipa underscores his role as a Spiritual Guide for humanity. This Mission is twofold: to instruct those engaged in rituals (kriya-kanda) with proper guidance and to impart Blissful, liberating Knowledge (jnana) to those with detached and reflective minds. This dual approach reflects the Yoga Vasishta’s inclusive teaching methodology, catering to both ritualistic practitioners and those pursuing philosophical inquiry. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring Spiritual guidance to the seeker’s level of understanding, ensuring accessibility to Wisdom for all.

Vasishta’s acceptance of this Mission, as described in verse 43, reflects his selfless dedication to humanity’s upliftment, sustained by Divine Will. His presence on earth, despite having no personal duties, illustrates the ideal of a liberated Being who acts without attachment, driven by compassion rather than personal desire. This state of “acting without acting” (verse 44) encapsulates the concept of nishkama karma (selfless action), where actions are performed with a tranquil mind, free from ego or expectation, aligning with the broader Vedantic principle of living in harmony with the cosmic order while remaining detached.

In essence, these verses convey the Yoga Vasishta’s core teachings of Self-Realization, selfless service, and the transcendence of duality. They portray Vasishta as a model of a Realized Sage who, despite being beyond worldly obligations, engages in the world to guide others toward liberation. The teachings encourage seekers to pursue Knowledge that leads to Inner Peace and to live with detachment, performing actions for the greater good without being bound by them. This blend of practical guidance and profound wisdom underscores the text’s timeless relevance in fostering spiritual growth and universal well-being.

Chapter 2.5, Verses 10–21

Yoga Vashishtha 2.5.10–21

(Supremacy of personal effort over predetermined destiny)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

प्राक्तनः पुरुषार्थोऽसौ मां नियोजयतीति धीः ।

बलादधस्पदीकार्या प्रत्यक्षादधिका न सा ॥ १० ॥

तावत्तावत्प्रयत्नेन यतितव्यं सुपौरुषम् ।

प्राक्तनं पौरुषं यावदशुभं शाम्यति स्वयम् ॥ ११ ॥

दोषः शाम्यत्यसंदेहं प्राक्तनोऽद्यतनैर्गुणैः।

दृष्टान्तोऽत्र ह्यस्तनस्य दोषस्याद्य गुणैः क्षयः ॥ १२ ॥

असद्दैवमधःकृत्वा नित्यमुद्रिक्तया धिया।

संसारोत्तरणं भूत्यै यतेताऽऽधातुमात्मनि ॥ १३ ॥

न गन्तव्यमनुद्योगैः साम्यं पुरुषगर्दभैः।

उद्योगस्तु यथाशास्त्रं लोकद्वितयसिद्धये ॥ १४ ॥

संसारकुहरादस्मान्निर्गन्तव्यं स्वयं बलात् ।

पौरुषं यत्नमाश्रित्य हरिणेवारिपञ्जरात् ॥ १५ ॥

प्रत्यहं प्रत्यवेक्षेत देहं नश्वरमात्मनः ।

संत्यजेत्पशुभिस्तुल्यं श्रयेत्सत्पुरुषोचितम् ॥ १६ ॥

किंचित्कान्तान्नपानादिकलिलं कोमलं गृहे ।

व्रणे कीट इवास्वाद्य वयः कार्यं न भस्मसात् ॥ १७ ॥

शुभेन पौरुषेणाशु शुभमासाद्यते फलम्।

अशुभेनाशुभं नित्यं दैवं नाम न किंचन ॥ १८ ॥

प्रत्यक्षमानमुत्सृज्य योऽनुमानमुपैत्यसौ।

स्वभुजाभ्यामिमौ सर्पाविति प्रेक्ष्य पलायते ॥ १९ ॥

दैवं संप्रेरयति मामिति दग्धधियां मुखम्।

अदृष्टश्रेष्ठदृष्टीनां दृष्ट्वा लक्ष्मीर्निवर्तते ॥ २० ॥

तस्मात्पुरुषयत्नेन विवेकं पूर्वमाश्रयेत् ।

आत्मज्ञानमहार्थानि शास्त्राणि प्रविचारयेत् ॥ २१ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said: 

2.5.10: The notion that past actions (prarabdha karma) compel me must be forcefully subdued, as it is not superior to direct experience.

2.5.11: One should strive with persistent effort and resolute will until the negative effects of past actions subside naturally.

2.5.12: Undoubtedly, the flaws of past actions are neutralized by the virtues cultivated in the present, just as the defects of a past life are diminished by current virtuous qualities.

2.5.13: By consistently rejecting the notion of a false destiny with an elevated mind, one should strive to transcend worldly existence for ultimate prosperity.

2.5.14: One should not fall into inaction, becoming like a beast among men; instead, effort aligned with scriptural wisdom should be pursued for success in both worldly and spiritual realms.

2.5.15: One must escape the trap of worldly existence through determined effort, relying on personal resolve, like a deer breaking free from a hunter’s cage.

2.5.16: Daily, one should reflect on the impermanent nature of the body, abandon beastly tendencies, and adopt the conduct befitting a noble person.

2.5.17: Life should not be wasted on fleeting pleasures of food, drink, or comforts at home, like a worm relishing a wound; instead, it should not be reduced to ashes.

2.5.18: Through virtuous effort, positive results are quickly attained, while negative actions yield negative outcomes; there is no such thing as destiny.

2.5.19: One who ignores evident Truth and relies on mere inference, mistaking their own arms for snakes, flees in fear.

2.5.20: Those who claim, “Destiny controls me,” with their deluded minds, find that even the goddess of fortune turns away upon seeing their reliance on an unseen fate over clear perception.

2.5.21: Therefore, one should first embrace discernment through persistent effort, deeply contemplating the scriptures to attain Self-Knowledge and the Highest Goals.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.5.10 to 2.5.21, spoken by Sage Vasishta, emphasize the supremacy of personal effort (purushartha) over the notion of predetermined destiny (daiva). 

The teachings challenge the belief that past actions or fate dictate one’s life, asserting that such a view is inferior to direct experience and conscious effort. Vasishta urges the practitioner to reject passivity and actively counter the effects of past karma through present virtuous actions. This proactive stance empowers individuals to take control of their spiritual and worldly journey, dismissing fatalistic ideas as obstacles to progress.

The text underscores the importance of persistent effort in overcoming negative tendencies inherited from past actions. By cultivating positive qualities and engaging in righteous endeavors, one can neutralize harmful karmic influences. The analogy of a deer escaping a hunter’s cage illustrates the need for determined, self-reliant action to break free from the cycle of samsara (worldly existence). This highlights the 

transformative power of human will when aligned with Wisdom and discipline, positioning effort as the key to Realization.

Vasishta further advises daily self-reflection on the impermanence of the physical body to cultivate detachment from fleeting pleasures. He warns against indulgence in sensory comforts, likening such behavior to a worm reveling in a wound, and encourages adopting noble conduct instead. The teachings reject a life wasted on trivial pursuits, advocating for a purposeful existence driven by higher aspirations. This call to mindfulness reinforces the need to prioritize spiritual growth over transient worldly gains.

The verses also debunk the concept of destiny as an independent force, asserting that outcomes are shaped by one’s actions. Vasishta uses vivid imagery, such as mistaking one’s arms for snakes, to illustrate the folly of ignoring evident truth in favor of unfounded beliefs. Those who attribute their circumstances to fate are depicted as misguided, unable to attract prosperity or progress. This critique emphasizes the importance of rational discernment and reliance on observable reality over speculative notions of predestination.

Finally, the teachings culminate in a call to embrace discernment (viveka) and scriptural wisdom to attain Self-Knowledge (atma-jnana). By prioritizing intellectual clarity and contemplative practice, one can achieve the Ultimate Purpose of life—liberation from samsara 

and Realization of the Self. These verses collectively inspire a proactive, discerning, and disciplined approach to life, where personal effort, guided by Wisdom, becomes the cornerstone of spiritual and worldly success.

Chapter 2.5, Verses 1–9

Yoga Vashishtha 2.5.1–9

(emphasizing supreme effort rooted in positive intent)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

प्रवृत्तिरेव प्रथमं यथाशास्त्रविहारिणाम्।

प्रभेव वर्णभेदानां साधनी सर्वकर्मणाम् ॥ १ ॥

मनसा वाञ्छते यच्च यथाशास्त्रं न कर्मणा ।

साध्यते मत्तलीलासौ मोहनी नार्थसाधनी ॥ २ ॥

यथा संयतते येन तथा तेनानुभूयते ।

स्वकर्मैवेति चास्तेऽन्या व्यतिरिक्ता न दैवदृक् ॥ ३ ॥

उच्छास्त्रं शास्त्रितं चेति द्विविधं पौरुषं स्मृतम् ।

तत्रोच्छास्त्रमनर्थाय परमार्थाय शास्त्रितम् ॥ ४ ॥

द्वौ हुडाविव युध्येते पुरुषार्थौ समासमौ।

प्राक्तनश्चैहिकश्चैव शाम्यत्यत्राल्पवीर्यवान् ॥ ५ ॥

अतः पुरुषयत्नेन यतितव्यं यथा तथा।

पुंसा तन्त्रेण सद्योगाद्येनाश्वद्यतनो जयेत् ॥ ६ ॥

द्वौ हुडाविव युध्येते पुरुषार्थौ समासमौ।

आत्मीयश्चान्यदीयश्च जयत्यतिबलस्तयोः ॥ ७ ॥

अनर्थः प्राप्यते यत्र शास्त्रितादपि पौरुषात् ।

अनर्थकर्तृ बलवत्तत्र ज्ञेयं स्वपौरुषम् ॥ ८ ॥

परं पौरुषमाश्रित्य दन्तैर्दन्तान्विचूर्णयन्।

शुभेनाऽशुभमुद्युक्तं प्राक्तनं पौरुषं जयेत् ॥ ९ ॥

Maharishi Vashisht said:

2.5.1: Action is the foremost requirement for those who follow the path of the scriptures, just as light is essential for distinguishing colors; it is the means to accomplish all endeavors.

2.5.2: Whatever the mind desires, if pursued according to scriptural injunctions but without proper action, becomes mere playful delusion, enchanting but ineffective in achieving True Goals.

2.5.3: The results one experiences are in accordance with the actions performed; there is no separate fate or destiny apart from one’s own efforts.

2.5.4: Human effort is of two kinds: unscriptural and scriptural. Unscriptural effort leads to harm, while scriptural effort leads to the Highest Good.

2.5.5: Like two rams fighting, past and present efforts clash equally; the weaker one succumbs in this struggle.

2.5.6: Therefore, one must strive with human effort in every possible way, following the right path, so that present effort overcomes past tendencies.

2.5.7: Like two rams fighting, one’s own effort and that of another clash equally; the stronger of the two prevails.

2.5.8: When harm arises even from scriptural effort, it should be understood that the stronger force is the effort causing the harm.

2.5.9: Relying on Supreme effort, like crushing teeth with teeth, one should overcome negative past efforts with positive, virtuous effort.

Summary of Teachings:

The teachings of Yoga Vasishta verses 2.5.1 to 2.5.9 emphasize the primacy of human effort (paurusha) in shaping one’s destiny and achieving meaningful outcomes, grounded in scriptural guidance. The verses assert that action is fundamental for those who adhere to spiritual or ethical principles, likening it to light that reveals distinctions. Without purposeful action, even desires aligned with scriptures remain illusory and unproductive, underscoring that intention alone is insufficient without practical effort.

The text dispels the notion of an external fate, asserting that outcomes are solely the result of one’s actions. This highlights personal responsibility, as there is no separate destiny dictating results beyond what one creates through effort. The verses stress that the quality and alignment of actions determine their fruits, emphasizing the importance of conscious, deliberate effort over passive reliance on external forces.

Human effort is categorized into two types: unscriptural, which leads to negative consequences, and scriptural, which aligns with Higher Truth and leads to Ultimate Good. This distinction urges individuals to pursue actions that are ethical and aligned with Spiritual Wisdom, as misguided efforts can lead to harm. The emphasis on scriptural effort reflects the need for actions to be informed by wisdom and righteousness to yield positive outcomes.

The metaphor of two rams fighting illustrates the conflict between past and present efforts, or between one’s own efforts and external influences. 

The stronger effort prevails, suggesting that present, conscious effort can overcome past tendencies or weaker influences. This encourages persistent, disciplined striving to shape one’s path, reinforcing the idea that current actions hold the power to transform one’s trajectory, even against ingrained habits or external challenges.

Finally, the verses advocate for resolute, virtuous effort to counteract negative past actions, likening it to crushing teeth with teeth. This imagery conveys the need for intense, focused effort to overcome obstacles or harmful tendencies. By emphasizing supreme effort rooted in positive intent, the teachings inspire individuals to take charge of their spiritual and practical lives, using disciplined action to achieve liberation and fulfillment.

Chapter 2.4, Verses 11–20

Yoga Vashishtha 2.4.11–20

(Disciplined effort, aligned with virtuous guidance, is the essence of meaningful action)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

साधूपदिष्टमार्गेण यन्मनोङ्गविचेष्टितम् ।

तत्पौरुषं तत्सफलमन्यदुन्मत्तचेष्टितम् ॥ ११ ॥

यो यमर्थं प्रार्थयते तदर्थं चेहते क्रमात्।

अवश्यं स तमाप्नोति न चेदर्धान्निवर्तते ॥ १२ ॥

पौरुषेण प्रयत्नेन त्रैलोक्यैश्वर्यसुन्दराम्।

कश्चित्प्राणिविशेषो हि शक्रतां समुपागतः ॥ १३ ॥

पौरुषेणैव यत्नेन सहसाम्भोरुहास्पदम् ।

कश्चिदेव चिदुल्लासो ब्रह्मतामधितिष्ठति ॥ १४ ॥

सारेण पुरुषार्थेन स्वेनैव गरुडध्वजः ।

कश्चिदेव पुमानेव पुरुषोत्तमतां गतः ॥ १५ ॥

पौरुषेणैव यत्नेन ललनावलिताकृतिः।

शरीरी कश्चिदेवेह गतश्चन्द्रार्धचूडताम् ॥ १६ ॥

प्राक्तनं चैहिकं चेति द्विविधं विद्धि पौरुषम् ।

प्राक्तनोऽद्यतनेनाशु पुरुषार्थेन जीयते ॥ १७ ॥

यत्नवद्भिर्दृढाभ्यासैः प्रज्ञोत्साहसमन्वितैः ।

मेरवोऽपि निगीर्यन्ते कैव प्राक्पौरुषे कथा ॥ १८ ॥

शास्त्रनियन्त्रितपौरुषपरमा पुरुषस्य पुरुषता या स्यात् ।

अभिमतफलभरसिद्ध्यै भवति हि सैवान्यथा त्वनर्थाय ॥ १९ ॥

कस्यांचित्स्वयमात्मदुःस्थितिवशात्पुंसो दशायां शनै रङ्गुल्यग्रनिपीडितैकचुलुकादावापबिन्दुर्बहुः ।

कस्यांचिज्जलराशिपर्वतपुरद्वीपान्तरालीकृता भर्तव्योचितसंविभागकरणे पृथ्वी न पृथ्वी भवेत् ॥ २० ॥

Maharishi Vasishta said: 

Verse 2.4.11: The actions of the mind and body, guided by the path taught by the virtuous, constitute true human effort, which yields fruitful results; anything else is merely the behavior of a madman.

Verse 2.4.12: Whatever one desires and strives for systematically will surely be attained, provided one does not abandon the effort midway.

Verse 2.4.13: Through persistent human effort, a particular being has attained the lordship of the three worlds, as splendid as Indra’s sovereignty.

Verse 2.4.14: Through dedicated effort alone, a rare individual, radiant with Consciousness, ascends to the State of Brahma, the Creator.

Verse 2.4.15: By the essence of self-effort, a distinguished person, like Vishnu bearing the eagle banner, achieves the state of supreme personhood.

Verse 2.4.16: Through persistent effort, a being, even in a physical form adorned with beauty, attains the divine state of Shiva, adorned with the crescent moon.

Verse 2.4.17: Know that human effort is of two kinds: past and present. Past efforts can be quickly overcome through determined effort in the present.

Verse 2.4.18: For those who strive with resolute practice and enthusiasm, even mountains like Meru can be conquered; what then of past efforts?

Verse 2.4.19: The Highest State of a person is achieved through effort guided by scriptural Wisdom, leading to desired outcomes; otherwise, unguided effort leads to ruin.

Verse 2.4.20: Due to a person’s unfortunate state, a single drop of water pressed from a fingertip may seem vast; but in another state, even the earth, with its oceans, mountains, cities, and continents, is insufficient to fulfill one’s destined responsibilities.

Summary of Teachings:

The teachings of these verses from the Yoga Vasishta emphasize the centrality of paurusha (human effort or self-effort) in achieving spiritual and worldly success. Vasishta instructs Rama that purposeful, disciplined effort, aligned with virtuous guidance, is the essence of meaningful action. Actions driven by wisdom and directed toward a clear goal yield fruitful results, while aimless or erratic behavior is likened to madness. This underscores the importance of intention and direction in human endeavors, distinguishing purposeful effort from futile activity. The verses establish effort as the cornerstone of progress, urging individuals to pursue their goals with clarity and commitment.

The verses further illustrate the transformative power of sustained effort by citing examples of extraordinary attainments. Through persistent self-effort, individuals can achieve Divine states, such as the sovereignty of Indra, the creatorhood of Brahma, the Supreme personhood of Vishnu, or the Divine status of Shiva. These examples highlight that even the highest spiritual and Cosmic states are accessible through dedicated effort, 

emphasizing that human potential is boundless when guided by resolve and Wisdom. This teaching inspires confidence in one’s ability to transcend limitations through disciplined action.

Vasishta introduces the concept of two types of effort: past (praktana) and present (aihika). Past efforts, which may manifest as karmic tendencies or predispositions, can be overcome by resolute present efforts. This highlights the dynamic nature of human agency, where current determination can reshape one’s destiny, overriding the influence of past actions. The metaphor of conquering Mount Meru through persistent practice reinforces the idea that no obstacle is insurmountable for those who combine effort with enthusiasm and wisdom. This empowers individuals to take responsibility for their present actions to shape their future.

The teachings also stress the importance of aligning effort with scriptural Wisdom to achieve meaningful outcomes. 

Unguided or misdirected effort risks leading to failure or harm, underscoring the need for discernment and knowledge in one’s pursuits. The verses advocate for a disciplined approach, where effort is informed by higher understanding, ensuring that actions lead to fulfillment rather than futility. This balance of effort and Wisdom is presented as the path to true success, whether in material or spiritual realms.

Finally, the verses reflect on the relativity of perception and responsibility. A person in distress may magnify a small challenge (like a drop of water), while one with a broader perspective may find even the vast earth insufficient for their duties. This contrast highlights the influence of one’s mental state on their experience and underscores the role of effort in transcending limiting perspectives. Collectively, these teachings advocate for a proactive, wise, and persistent approach to life, emphasizing that disciplined effort, guided by virtue and understanding, is the key to achieving both worldly success and Spiritual Realization.

Chapter 2.4, Verses 1–10

Yoga Vashishtha 2.4.1–10

(Nature of Realization and the role of human effort - paurusha in attaining Spiritual Wisdom)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

सौम्याम्बुत्वे तरङ्गत्वे सलिलस्याम्बुता यथा ।

समैवाब्धौ तथाऽदेहसदेहमुनिमुक्तता ॥ १ ॥

सदेहा वास्त्वदेहा वा मुक्तता विषये न च ।

अनास्वादितभोगस्य कुतो भोज्यानुभूतयः ॥ २ ॥

जीवन्मुक्त मुनिश्रेष्ठं केवलं हि पदार्थवत् ।

पश्यामः पुरतो नास्य पुनर्विघ्नोऽन्तराशयम् ॥ ३ ॥

सदेहादेहमुक्तानां भेदः को बोधरूपिणाम् ।

यदेवाम्बुतरङ्गत्वे सौम्यत्वेऽपि तदेव तत् ॥ ४ ॥

न मनागपि भेदोऽस्ति सदेहादेहमुक्तयोः।

सस्पन्दोऽप्यथवाऽस्पन्दो वायुरेव यथानिलः ॥ ५ ॥

सदेहा वा विदेहा वा मुक्तता न प्रमास्पदम् ।

अस्माकमपि तस्यास्ति स्वैकतास्त्यविभागिनी ॥ ६ ॥

तस्मात्प्रकृतमेवेदं शृणु श्रवणभूषणम्।

मयोपदिश्यमानं त्वं ज्ञानमज्ञान्ध्यनाशनम् ॥ ७ ॥

सर्वमेवेह हि सदा संसारे रघुनन्दन ।

सम्यक्प्रयुक्तात्सर्वेण पौरुषात्समवाप्यते ॥ ८ ॥

इह हीन्दोरिवोदेति शीतलाह्लादनं हृदि।

परिस्पन्दफलप्राप्तौ पौरुषादेव नान्यतः ॥ ९ ॥

पौरुषं स्पन्दफलवद्दृष्टं प्रत्यक्षतो नयत् ।

कल्पितं मोहितैर्मन्दैर्दैवं किंचिन्न विद्यते ॥ १० ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said: 

2.4.1: Just as water remains water whether it is in the form of a wave or calm, so too the liberated sage, whether embodied or disembodied, remains the same in the ocean of existence.

2.4.2: Whether embodied or disembodied, liberation is not concerned with worldly objects. How can there be experience of pleasures for one who has not tasted them?

2.4.3: We see the best of Sages, liberated while living, standing before us like an ordinary object, with no inner turmoil or obstacles in their mind.

2.4.4: What difference is there between the embodied and disembodied liberated ones, who are of the Nature of Pure Consciousness? Just as water is the same whether calm or in the form of a wave, so too is liberation.

2.4.5: There is not the slightest difference between the embodied and disembodied liberated states, just as air remains air whether it moves or is still.

2.4.6: Whether embodied or disembodied, liberation is not a place of delusion. Even we possess that non-dual, indivisible essence of liberation.

2.4.7: Therefore, listen to this teaching, which is an ornament to the ears, as I impart to you the Knowledge that destroys the darkness of ignorance.

2.4.8: In this world, O delight of the Raghu dynasty, everything is always attained through rightly applied effort, and by effort alone.

2.4.9: Just as the cool, soothing light of the moon rises in the heart, the fruit of action is attained only through effort, not otherwise.

2.4.10: Effort is seen to directly yield the fruit of action, while the notion of fate, imagined by the deluded and ignorant, has no real existence.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.4.1 to 2.4.10, spoken by Sage Vasishta to Rama, emphasize the nature of liberation (mukti) and the role of human effort (paurusha) in attaining spiritual Wisdom. The central teaching is that liberation is a state of Pure Consciousness, unaffected by whether a Sage is embodied (living in a physical body) or disembodied (free from the body). Through analogies like water remaining the same whether calm or in waves, and air being unchanged whether still or moving, Vasishta illustrates that the essence of liberation is unchanging and non-dual, transcending physical or mental distinctions.

The verses clarify that a liberated Sage, whether living (jivanmukta) or not, is free from inner turmoil and unaffected by worldly pleasures or objects. This state of liberation is not dependent on external conditions but is an intrinsic quality of pure Awareness. The Sage’s mind is unperturbed, and their liberation is complete, regardless of their physical state. This teaching underscores the Advaita Vedanta principle of non-duality, where the apparent differences between embodied and disembodied states are illusory, as both are rooted in the same Ultimate Reality.

Vasishta further asserts that liberation is accessible to all, as it is the Natural State of the Self, untainted by delusion. He encourages Rama to listen attentively to the teachings, which serve as a means to dispel ignorance (ajnana). The metaphor of Knowledge as an "ornament to the ears" highlights its transformative power, guiding the seeker toward the Realization of their non-dual Essence. This suggests that liberation is not a distant goal but a present reality that can be recognized through proper understanding.

A significant portion of these verses emphasizes the importance of human effort (paurusha) in achieving spiritual and worldly goals. Vasishta rejects the concept of fate (daiva) as a delusion of the ignorant, asserting that effort alone yields results, likening it to the soothing light of the moon that arises through action. This teaching empowers the individual to take responsibility for their spiritual journey, reinforcing the idea that liberation and success are attained through deliberate, righteous effort rather than passive reliance on external forces.

In conclusion, these verses present a cohesive philosophy of liberation as a state of unchanging Consciousness, accessible through Knowledge and effort. They dismantle distinctions between embodied and disembodied liberation, affirm the non-dual nature of reality, and advocate for Self-reliance in the pursuit of Wisdom. By addressing both the metaphysical nature of liberation and the practical means to Realize it, Vasishta provides Rama—and the reader—with a comprehensive guide to transcending ignorance and attaining the Ultimate Truth.