Chapter 2.20, Verses 7–15

Yoga Vashishtha 2.20.7–15

(Spiritual progress is a harmonious blend of Wisdom and Ethical living)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

ज्ञानं सत्पुरुषाचाराज्ज्ञानात्सत्पुरुषक्रमः।

परस्परं गतौ वृद्धिं ज्ञानसत्पुरुषक्रमौ ॥ ७ ॥

शमप्रज्ञादिनिपुणपुरुषार्थक्रमेण च ।

अभ्यसेत्पुरुषो धीमाञ्ज्ञानसत्पुरुषक्रमौ ॥ ८ ॥

न यावत्सममभ्यस्तौ ज्ञानसत्पुरुषक्रमौ।

एकोऽपि नैतयोस्तात पुरुषस्येह सिध्यति ॥ ९ ॥

यथा कलमरक्षिण्या गीत्या वितततालया ।

खगोत्सादेन सहितं गीतानन्दः प्रसाध्यते ॥ १० ॥

ज्ञानसत्पुरुषेहाभ्यामकर्त्रा कर्तृरूपिणा ।

तथा पुंसा निरिच्छेन सममासाद्यते पदम् ॥ ११ ॥

सदाचारक्रमः प्रोक्तो मयैवं रघुनन्दन।

तथोपदिश्यते सम्यगेवं ज्ञानक्रमोऽधुना ॥ १२ ॥

इदं यशस्यमायुष्यं पुरुषार्थफलप्रदम्।

तज्ज्ञादाप्ताच्च सच्छास्त्रं श्रोतव्यं किल धीमता ॥ १३ ॥

श्रुत्वा त्वं बुद्धिनैर्मल्याद्बलाद्यास्यसि तत्पदम् ।

यथा कतकसंश्लेषात्प्रसादं कलुषं पयः ॥ १४ ॥

विदितवेद्यमिदं हि मनो मुनेर्विवशमेव हि याति परं पदम् ।

यदवबुद्धमखण्डितमुत्तमं तदवबोधवशान्न जहाति हि ॥ १५ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.20.7: Knowledge arises from the conduct of a Virtuous person, and the conduct of a Virtuous person stems from Knowledge. Knowledge and virtuous conduct mutually enhance each other.

2.20.8: A Wise person should practice both Knowledge and Virtuous conduct through Tranquility, Discernment, and the pursuit of meaningful Goals with skill.

2.20.9: Until Knowledge and Virtuous conduct are practiced equally, neither alone can lead a person to success in this world.

2.20.10: Just as a song, with its rhythm and melody, combined with the expulsion of breath, produces the joy of singing, so too do Knowledge and Virtuous conduct together bring fulfillment.

2.20.11: Through Knowledge and Virtuous conduct, a person without selfish desires, acting both as the doer and non-doer, attains the Ultimate State.

2.20.12: I have explained the sequence of Virtuous conduct, O delight of the Raghu dynasty. Now, I will correctly teach the sequence of Knowledge.

2.20.13: This Knowledge, which brings fame, long life, and the fruits of human endeavor, should be learned by the Wise from trustworthy sources and sacred scriptures.

2.20.14: By hearing this Knowledge, through the Purity of your intellect and strength, you will attain that State, just as turbid water becomes clear with the touch of a clearing nut.

2.20.15: When the mind of a Sage understands what is to be known, it inevitably reaches the Supreme State. That which is Realized as whole and Supreme never leaves one through the power of Awakening.

Summary of Teachings:

The teachings of Yoga Vasishta verses 2.20.7 to 2.20.15 emphasize the symbiotic relationship between Knowledge (param jnana) and Virtuous conduct (sadachara) as essential for spiritual and worldly success. 

The verses, spoken by Sage Vasishta to Rama, highlight that these two elements are interdependent, each nurturing and strengthening the other. Knowledge informs Virtuous behavior, and Virtuous behavior deepens understanding, creating a cycle of mutual growth. This interplay is foundational for a Wise person seeking to live a meaningful life, as neither Knowledge nor conduct alone is sufficient to achieve true fulfillment or Realization.

The verses stress the importance of balanced practice. A wise individual must cultivate both Knowledge and Virtuous conduct with equal diligence, using qualities like Tranquility, Discernment, and purposeful action. The metaphor of a song in verse 2.20.10 illustrates this harmony, comparing the combination of Knowledge and conduct to the rhythm, melody, and breath that together produce the joy of singing. This suggests that spiritual progress requires an integrated approach, where intellectual understanding and ethical living work in tandem to elevate the practitioner toward the Ultimate Goal of Self-Realization.

Vasishta further explains that Virtuous conduct is a prerequisite for understanding Higher Knowledge, and he promises to elaborate on the sequence of acquiring Knowledge after having outlined the importance of conduct. This structured approach underscores the systematic nature of spiritual growth in the Yoga Vasishta, where disciplined practice and learning from reliable sources—such as trustworthy teachers and sacred texts—are vital. The teachings are presented as not only spiritually transformative but also conducive to worldly benefits like fame and longevity, appealing to both the spiritual aspirant and the practical individual.

The transformative power of Knowledge is likened to a clearing nut purifying turbid water, suggesting that intellectual Clarity and Purity of mind enable one to attain the Supreme State. This State is described as an unshakeable Realization of the Ultimate Truth, where the mind, once awakened to the whole and Supreme Reality, remains steadfastly connected to it. The verses emphasize the role of a pure intellect and persistent effort in achieving this state, reinforcing the idea that Realization is accessible through dedicated practice and understanding.

Overall, these verses encapsulate the Yoga Vasishta’s core teaching that spiritual progress is a harmonious blend of Wisdom and Ethical living. By practicing both with sincerity and balance, one transcends selfish desires and attains the Ultimate State of Realization. The teachings encourage learning from authentic sources, cultivating Inner Purity, and integrating Knowledge with action, offering a practical yet profound path to Self-Realization that is both accessible and transformative for the dedicated seeker.

End of Chapter–2

Chapter 2.20, Verses 1–6

Yoga Vashishtha 2.20.1–6

(The Tranquility of Wisdom)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

आर्यसंगमयुक्त्यादौ प्रज्ञां वृद्धिं नयेद्बलात् ।

ततो महापुरुषतां महापुरुषलक्षणैः ॥ १॥

यो यो येन गुणेनेह पुरुषः प्रविराजते ।

शिष्यते तं तमेवाशु तस्माद्बुद्धिं विवर्धयेत् ॥ २ ॥

महापुरुषता ह्येषा शमादिगुणशालिनी ।

सम्यग्ज्ञानं विना राम सिद्धिमेति न कांचन ॥ ३ ॥

ज्ञानाच्छमादयो यान्ति वृद्धिं सत्पुरुषक्रमाः ।

श्लाघनीयाः फलेनान्तर्वृष्टेरिव नवाङ्कुराः ॥ ४ ॥

शमादिभ्यो गुणेभ्यश्च वर्धते ज्ञानमुत्तमम् ।

अन्नात्मकेभ्यो यज्ञेभ्यः शालिवृष्टिरिवोत्तमा ॥ ५ ॥

गुणाः शमादयो ज्ञानाच्छमादिभ्यस्तथा ज्ञता ।

परस्परं विवर्धन्ते ते अब्जसरसी इव ॥ ६॥

Maharishi Vasishta said: 

2.20.1: Through association with the noble and by diligently fostering Wisdom, one should strive to attain the State of a great soul, endowed with the qualities of such Noble Beings.

2.20.2: Whatever quality makes a person shine in this world, that very quality should be quickly cultivated, and thus one should enhance their Wisdom.

2.20.3: The State of a great soul, characterized by qualities like Tranquility, cannot be achieved without True Knowledge, O Rama, for no attainment is possible without it.

2.20.4: Through Knowledge, virtues like Tranquility grow, following the path of Noble Beings, and these virtues, praiseworthy in their results, are like new sprouts thriving after rain.

2.20.5: From virtues like Tranquility, Supreme Knowledge flourishes, just as the finest rice grows from well-performed rituals.

2.20.6: Virtues like Tranquility and Knowledge mutually enhance each other, growing together like lotuses in a lake.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.20.1 to 2.20.6, spoken by Sage Vasishta to Rama, emphasize the interconnectedness of Wisdom, virtuous qualities, and the path to becoming a great soul (mahapurusha). The teachings highlight that spiritual growth begins with deliberate effort to cultivate Wisdom through association with noble individuals. This association acts as a catalyst, inspiring and guiding one toward higher understanding and the embodiment of qualities that define a great soul, such as integrity, compassion, and inner peace. The verses establish that Wisdom is not an isolated trait but a foundational force that must be actively nurtured to achieve spiritual excellence.

The second verse underscores the importance of recognizing and developing specific qualities that distinguish an individual. Rather than passively accepting one’s current state, Vasishta advises actively cultivating those attributes that lead to personal radiance and growth. This process is dynamic, requiring intentional effort to strengthen Wisdom, which serves as the root for all virtuous qualities. The emphasis is on proactive self-improvement, suggesting that each person has unique strengths that, when refined, contribute to their spiritual and moral elevation.

In the third verse, Vasishta stresses that True Knowledge is indispensable for attaining the State of a Great soul, characterized by virtues like Tranquility (shama). Without proper understanding, no spiritual or moral progress is possible. This teaching positions knowledge as the cornerstone of spiritual success, distinguishing it from mere intellectual accumulation. True Knowledge, in this context, is transformative, enabling the practitioner to embody virtues that align with the ideals of a Noble Being, thus facilitating a deeper connection to the Divine or Ultimate Truth.

The fourth and fifth verses illustrate the symbiotic relationship between Knowledge and Virtues. Knowledge fosters virtues such as Tranquility, which in turn create fertile ground for further wisdom to flourish. This cyclical growth is likened to natural processes—sprouts thriving after rain or rice yielding from well-performed rituals—emphasizing that spiritual progress is organic yet requires cultivation. The metaphors highlight the transformative power of Knowledge and virtues working in tandem, producing tangible Inner Growth that is both praiseworthy and enduring.

Finally, the sixth verse encapsulates the mutual reinforcement of Knowledge and Virtues, comparing their interplay to lotuses flourishing together in a lake. This imagery conveys harmony and interdependence, suggesting that spiritual growth is a holistic process where wisdom and virtuous qualities amplify each other. The teachings collectively urge a disciplined, intentional approach to self-development, rooted in Wisdom and Virtuous conduct, to attain the elevated state of a Great soul. This path, grounded in mutual growth and noble association, offers a practical yet profound framework for spiritual evolution.

Chapter 2.19, Verses 31–35

Yoga Vashishtha 2.19.31–35

(The Nature of the Self - Atman or Brahm)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

स सर्वात्मा यथा यत्र समुल्लासमुपागतः।

तिष्ठत्याशु तथा तत्र तद्रूप इव राजते ॥ ३१ ॥

सर्वात्मकतया द्रष्टुर्दृश्यत्वमिव युज्यते ।

दृश्यत्वं द्रष्टृसद्भावे दृश्यतापि न वास्तवी ॥ ३२ ॥

अकारणकमेवातो ब्रह्म सिद्धमिदं स्थितम् ।

प्रत्यक्षमेव निर्मातृ तस्यांशास्त्वनुमादयः ॥ ३३ ॥

स्वयत्नमात्रे यदुपासको यस्तद्दैवशब्दार्थमपास्य दूरे ।

शूरेण साधो पदमुत्तमं तत् स्वपौरुषेणैव हि लभ्यतेऽन्तः ॥ ३४ ॥

विचारयाचार्यपरम्पराणां मतेन सत्येन सितेन तावत् ।

यावद्विशुद्धं स्वयमेव बुद्धया ह्यनन्तरूपं परमभ्युपैषि ॥ ३५ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.19.31: The all-pervading Self, manifesting in various forms and places, exists in those forms and shines as if it were those forms themselves.

2.19.32: Due to its all-pervading nature, the Self appears as the seen, but in the presence of the True Seer, the seen is not ultimately Real.

2.19.33: Thus, Brahm, without any cause, is established as this manifest Reality; it is directly perceived, and its aspects are inferred.

2.19.34: The aspirant who relies solely on personal effort, casting aside notions of fate, attains the Supreme State through Inner courage and Self-effort.

2.19.35: Reflect on the Pure and True Teachings of the lineage of Masters with your intellect until you directly Realize the Infinite Nature of the Supreme Reality.

Summary of Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta (2.19.31–2.19.35) articulate a profound metaphysical and practical teaching centered on the nature of the Self (Atman or Brahm), the illusory nature of the perceived world, and the path to Realizing Ultimate Truth through personal effort and Discernment.

In the first verse (2.19.31), the text emphasizes the all-pervading nature of the Self, which manifests in various forms and contexts yet remains unchanged in its essence. This suggests that the diversity of the world is an expression of the Singular, Infinite Self, which appears as manifold while retaining its Unity. The teaching invites contemplation on the non-dual reality underlying all appearances, encouraging the aspirant to see beyond the superficial diversity of existence.

The second verse (2.19.32) delves deeper into the relationship between the Seer (the Self) and the seen (the world). It posits that the world appears real only because of the Self’s all-encompassing nature, but in the light of True Awareness, the seen lacks Ultimate Reality. This highlights the Advaita Vedanta principle of non-duality, where the perceived world is an illusion (maya) superimposed on the Eternal Reality of the Self. The teaching challenges the aspirant to question the Reality of external phenomena and recognize that only the Self, as the Seer, is truly existent, while the objects of Perception are transient and insubstantial.

In the third verse (2.19.33), the text asserts that Brahm, the Ultimate Reality, exists without any external cause and is directly accessible through immediate Perception. The world and its phenomena are mere inferences or projections of this fundamental Reality. This teaching underscores the self-evident nature of Brahm, which does not depend on external validation or causation. It encourages the seeker to trust direct experience over intellectual speculation, pointing to the immediacy of Spiritual Realization when one turns inward with Clarity and focus.

The fourth verse (2.19.34) shifts to a practical dimension, emphasizing the importance of Self-effort (purushartha) in spiritual practice. It advises the aspirant to reject reliance on fate or external forces and instead cultivate inner strength and determination to attain the Supreme State. This reflects the Yoga Vasishta’s recurring theme of personal responsibility, where 

Realization is not a matter of chance or Divine whim but the result of disciplined effort and courage. The verse empowers the seeker to take charge of their spiritual journey, reinforcing that the Ultimate Truth is accessible through one’s own striving.

Finally, the fifth verse (2.19.35) advocates for intellectual Discernment (vichara) guided by the authentic teachings of Spiritual Masters. It urges the aspirant to reflect deeply on these teachings until the infinite nature of the Self is Realized directly. This process of Inquiry, grounded in Purity and Truth, leads to the dissolution of Ignorance and the direct experience of the boundless Reality. Collectively, these verses weave together metaphysical insights and practical guidance, emphasizing the Unity of Existence, the illusory nature of the world, and the transformative power of self-effort and Discernment in attaining Realization.

Chapter 2.19, Verses 25–30

Yoga Vashishtha 2.19.25–30

(By calming the mind and detaching from desires, one can see through the illusory nature of the world)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

मनस्यनीहिते शान्ते स्वबुद्धीन्द्रियकर्मभिः।

नहि कश्चित्कृतैरर्थो नाकृतैरप्यभावनात् ॥ २५ ॥

मनस्यनीहिते शान्ते न प्रवर्तन्त एव ते।

कर्मेन्द्रियाणि कर्मादावसंचारितयन्त्रवत् ॥ २६ ॥

मनोयन्त्रस्य चलने कारणं वेदनं विदुः।

प्रणालीदारुमेषस्य रज्जुरन्तर्गता यथा ॥ २७ ॥

रूपालोकमनस्कारपदार्थव्याकुलं जगत्।

विद्यते वेदनस्यान्तर्वातान्तः स्पन्दनं यथा ॥ २८ ॥

सर्वात्मवेदनं शुद्धं यथोदेति तदात्मकम् ।

भाति प्रसृतदिक्कालबाह्यान्तारूपदेहकम् ॥ २९ ॥

दृष्ट्वैव दृश्यताभासं स्वरूपं धारयन्स्थितः।

स्वं यथा यत्र यद्रूपं प्रतिभाति तथैव तत् ॥ ३० ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.19.25: When the mind is calm and free from desires, neither actions performed by the intellect, senses, or body, nor the absence of such actions, serve any purpose due to the lack of attachment.

2.19.26: When the mind is tranquil and without desire, the organs of action do not engage in activity, just as a machine remains inactive when not set in motion.

2.19.27: The movement of the mind, likened to a machine, is driven by perception, much like a hidden rope causes a wooden mechanism to move.

2.19.28: The world, filled with forms, perceptions, thoughts, and objects, exists within perception, just as the vibration of air exists within the wind.

2.19.29: Pure perception, arising as the Essence of all, manifests as the external and internal forms, encompassing space, time, and physical bodies.

2.19.30: By Realizing the illusory nature of the perceived world and abiding in one’s True Essence, whatever form appears to the Self manifests as such.

Summary of Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.19.25–2.19.30, part of the dialogue between Sage Vasishta and Lord Rama, elucidate the pivotal role of the mind in shaping Reality and the path to Freedom through detachment and Self-Realization. The core teaching emphasizes that a Tranquil, desireless mind renders all actions—whether performed by the body, senses, or intellect—meaningless in the context of Spiritual Realization. When the mind is free from desires, it ceases to drive the organs of action, akin to an idle machine, highlighting that mental agitation is the root of worldly engagement. This underscores the Advaita Vedanta principle that the cessation of mental activity leads to Realization, as actions lose significance without attachment.

The metaphor of the mind as a machine driven by Perception illustrates that all experiences and actions stem from the mind’s interaction with the world. Just as a rope hidden within a wooden mechanism causes movement, perception animates the mind, creating the illusion of an active, external world. This suggests that the world and its activities are not independent realities but projections of the mind’s perceptions. The teaching points to the necessity of stilling the mind to transcend the cycle of action and reaction, aligning with the non-dual perspective that the world is a mental construct.

The verses further describe the world as a product of Perception, encompassing forms, thoughts, and objects, much like vibrations exist within the wind. This reinforces the idea that the external world, with its diversity of forms and experiences, is not separate from the perceiving Consciousness. The world exists within the framework of perception, and its apparent Reality is contingent upon the mind’s activity. By calming the mind and detaching from desires, one can see through the illusory nature of the world, recognizing it as a manifestation of Consciousness rather than an independent entity.

The concept of Pure Perception is introduced as the Essence of all Existence, manifesting as both external (space, time, and forms) and internal (thoughts and Self-Awareness) realities. This Pure Perception is the Unchanging Self, the Atman, which underlies all appearances. The verses suggest that by abiding in this Pure Awareness, one transcends the duality of subject and object, Realizing that all manifestations—external or internal—are expressions of the same Consciousness. This Realization dissolves the illusion of separateness, leading to a state of Unity with the Absolute.

Finally, the teachings culminate in the instruction to recognize the illusory nature of the perceived world and abide in one’s True Essence. By understanding that the world’s forms are mere appearances within Consciousness, one can remain established in the Self, unaffected by external manifestations. Whatever appears to the Self takes on the form it projects, but the Realized Being remains rooted in the Unchanging Reality of the self. This encapsulates the Essence of Self-Realization: to see the world as a reflection of Consciousness and to rest in one’s True Nature, free from the fluctuations of the mind and the illusion of duality.

Chapter 2.19, Verses 17–24

Yoga Vashishtha 2.19.17–24

(Nature of perception, Consciousness, and the illusory manifestation of the world)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

सर्वाक्षसारमध्यक्षं वेदनं विदुरुत्तमाः।

नूनं तत्प्रतिपत्सिद्धं तत्प्रत्यक्षमुदाहृतम् ॥ १७ ॥

अनुभूतेर्वेदनस्य प्रतिपत्तेर्यथाभिधम्।

प्रत्यक्षमिति नामेह कृतं जीवः स एव नः ॥ १८ ॥

स एव संवित्स पुमानहंताप्रत्ययात्मकः ।

स ययोदेति संवित्त्या सा पदार्थ इति स्मृता ॥ १९ ॥

ससंकल्पविकल्पाद्यैः कृतनानाक्रमभ्रमैः ।

जगत्तया स्फुरत्यम्बु तरङ्गादितया यथा ॥ २० ॥

प्रागकारणमेवाशु सर्गादौ सर्गलीलया ।

स्फुरित्वा कारणं भूतं प्रत्यक्षं स्वयमात्मनि ॥ २१ ॥

कारणं त्वविचारोत्थजीवस्यासदपि स्थितम् ।

सदिवास्यां जगद्रूपं प्रकृतौ व्यक्तिमागतम् ॥ २२ ॥

स्वयमेव विचारस्तु स्वत उत्थं स्वकं वपुः।

नाशयित्वा करोत्याशु प्रत्यक्षं परमं महत् ॥ २३ ॥

विचारवान्विचारोऽपि आत्मानमवगच्छति ।

यदा तदा निरुल्लेखं परमेवावशिष्यते ॥ २४ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.19.17: The Highest Knower understand perception as the essence of all senses, the core of experience. Certainly, that which is attained through perception is called direct experience.

2.19.18: According to the experience of perception, as it is described, it is termed direct experience. The individual soul (jiva) is indeed that very perception.

2.19.19: That same perception is the conscious being, characterized by the sense of "I-ness." Whatever arises through this Consciousness is known as an object.

2.19.20: With concepts and alternatives, creating various illusory sequences, it manifests as the world, just as water sparkles with waves.

2.19.21: Before any cause, at the beginning of creation, through the play of creation, it manifests and becomes the cause, directly experienced within the Self.

2.19.22: The cause, though unreal, appears to exist for the ignorant individual soul. In its nature, the form of the world becomes manifest as if it were Real.

2.19.23: Through Self-Inquiry, the Self arises and destroys its own form, quickly revealing the Supreme, ultimate direct experience.

2.19.24: When the One who inquires through Self-Inquiry Realized the Self, then nothing remains to be described, only the Supreme remains.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.19.17 to 2.19.24 explore the nature of perception, Consciousness, and the illusory manifestation of the world, emphasizing the importance of Self-Inquiry in Realizing the Ultimate Truth. The teachings begin by defining perception as the essence of sensory experience, recognized by the wise as direct experience. This direct experience is not merely sensory but is tied to the individual soul (jiva), which is itself an expression of Consciousness. The verses establish that what we perceive as Reality is deeply connected to the conscious Self, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of how this Consciousness shapes our understanding of existence.

The text then describes the individual soul as Consciousness imbued with the sense of "I-ness," which gives rise to the perception of objects. This process of perception creates the world, likened to waves on water, driven by concepts and mental constructs that produce an illusory sequence of experiences. The analogy of water and waves illustrates how the world appears as a dynamic, ever-changing phenomenon, yet it is fundamentally rooted in the same Consciousness. This suggests that the diversity and multiplicity of the world are mere appearances, projections of the mind’s activity within the framework of Consciousness.

The verses further explain that at the beginning of creation, Consciousness manifests as the cause of the world through its own playful expression. This cause, though appearing Real to the ignorant, is ultimately unreal, as it exists only within the framework of perception. The world’s manifestation is thus a product of Ignorance, where the unreal appears as real due to a lack of discernment. This teaching underscores the Vedantic principle that the world, as perceived, is a superimposition on the underlying Reality of Consciousness, highlighting the need to question the apparent Reality of external phenomena.

The role of Self-Inquiry (vichara) is central to transcending this illusion. Through inquiry, the Self examines and dissolves its own false forms, revealing the Supreme Truth that lies beyond. 

This process of Self-Inquiry is transformative, as it dismantles the illusory constructs of the mind, leading to the direct experience of the Ultimate Reality. The teachings emphasize that the practice of Self-Inquiry is not about acquiring new knowledge but about negating false perceptions, allowing the practitioner to Realize the Self as the Unchanging Reality behind all appearances.

Finally, the verses conclude by stating that when Self-Inquiry culminates in the Realization of the Self, all distinctions and descriptions vanish, leaving only the Supreme Reality. This State is beyond conceptualization, where the individual soul merges into the absolute, and no trace of duality or illusion remains. The teachings encapsulate the core Advaita Vedanta principle of non-duality, urging the seeker to transcend the apparent world through Self-Inquiry to attain the direct experience of the Ultimate Truth, which is the Self alone.

Chapter 2.19, Verses 10–16

Yoga Vashishtha 2.19.10–16

(The Teachings guide the seeker toward a State of Inner Tranquility and Clarity)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

तुर्यविश्रान्तियुक्तस्य प्रतीपस्य भवार्णवात् ।

जीवतोऽजीवतश्चैव गृहस्थस्य तथा यतेः ॥ १० ॥

न कृतेनाकृतेनार्थो न श्रुतिस्मृतिविभ्रमैः ।

निर्मन्दर इवाम्भोधिः स तिष्ठति यथास्थितम् ॥ ११ ॥

एकांशेनोपमानानामुपमेयसधर्मता ।

बोद्धव्यं बोध्यबोधाय न स्थेयं बोधचञ्चुना ॥ १२ ॥

यया कयाचिद्युक्त्या तु बोद्धव्यं बोध्यमेव ते ।

युक्तायुक्तं न पश्यन्ति व्याकुला बोधचञ्चवः ॥ १३ ॥

हृदये संविदाकाशे विश्रान्तेऽनुभवात्मनि।

वस्तुन्यनर्थं यः प्राह बोधचञ्चुः स उच्यते ॥ १४ ॥

अभिमानविकल्पांशैरज्ञो ज्ञप्तिं विकल्पयेत् ।

बोधं मलिनयत्यन्तः स्वं खमब्द इवामलम् ॥ १५ ॥

सर्वप्रमाणसत्तानां पदमब्धिरपामिव।

प्रमाणमेकमेवेह प्रत्यक्षं तदतः शृणु ॥ १६॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.19.10: For one who rests in the State of Pure Consciousness (turiya), free from the ocean of worldly existence, whether living or seemingly non-living, whether a householder or a renunciant, there is Tranquility.

2.19.11: Such a person is unaffected by actions done or undone, and unswayed by the confusions of scriptures or traditions, standing firm like a calm ocean without a churning rod.

2.19.12: The similarity between objects of comparison and the subject should be understood partially to gain knowledge, but one should not remain attached to the fleeting nature of intellectual understanding.

2.19.13: You should comprehend the Knowable through any suitable means, but those with restless minds, entangled in intellectual debates, fail to discern what is proper or improper.

2.19.14: One who, while resting in the space of Pure Consciousness within the Heart, declares something meaningless about Reality is called an intellectual trickster.

2.19.15: An ignorant person, swayed by doubts and false notions, distorts true understanding, tainting Pure Awareness within, like clouds obscuring a clear sky.

2.19.16: Just as the ocean is the source of all waters, direct experience is the sole valid means of Knowledge here; therefore, listen to its Truth.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.19.10–2.19.16, spoken by Sage Vasishta, emphasize the supremacy of Pure Consciousness and direct experience as the foundation for true understanding, transcending dualities, intellectual debates, and external validations. The Teachings guide the seeker toward a State of Inner Tranquility and Clarity, urging them to rise above worldly attachments, mental fluctuations, and reliance on indirect means of Knowledge. 

These verses align with Advaita Vedanta’s core principle of realizing the non-dual Self through direct perception, dismissing distractions caused by ignorance or over-intellectualization.

The first two verses (10–11) introduce the State of Turiya, the Fourth State of Consciousness beyond waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, where one is Self-Inquiry Realized. This State is accessible to all—whether a householder or a renunciant—and is marked by unshakable peace, unaffected by actions or scriptural confusions. The metaphor of a calm ocean signifies a mind free from agitation, rooted in its natural State of Being, highlighting the universality of this Realization regardless of one’s external role or status.

Verses 12–13 caution against over-reliance on intellectual analysis or comparisons, which can trap the mind in restless debates. While partial understanding through analogies is useful, clinging to such methods hinders True Knowledge. The teachings encourage using any suitable means to grasp Reality but warn that a restless mind, caught in endless arguments about what is valid or invalid, fails to attain Clarity. This reflects the text’s emphasis on transcending mental agitation to focus on the Essence of the Knowable — Pure Consciousness.

Verses 14–15 further critique those who, despite accessing the space of Pure Awareness, misinterpret or trivialize Reality due to Ignorance or pride. Such individuals, likened to intellectual tricksters, distort truth by imposing false notions, clouding their innate Clarity like clouds obscure a clear sky. These verses underscore the importance of Humility and Purity in perception, warning against the ego’s tendency to complicate or corrupt the simplicity of direct experience.

Finally, verse 16 establishes direct experience (pratyaksha) as the Ultimate means of Knowledge, akin to the ocean as the source of all waters. This reinforces the idea that true understanding arises from immediate, intuitive Realization rather than external proofs or secondary sources. Collectively, these verses guide the seeker to rest in the Heart’s Pure Awareness, free from mental distortions, and to rely on direct experience to Realize the non-dual truth, embodying the essence of Advaita philosophy.

Chapter 2.19, Verses 1–9

Yoga Vashishtha 2.19.1–9

(Following scriptural guidance, and engaging in righteous actions to cultivate Inner fulfillment)

श्रीवसिष्ठ उवाच ।

विशिष्टांशसमर्थत्वमुपमानेषु गृह्यते।

को भेदः सर्वसादृश्ये तूपमानोपमेययोः ॥ १ ॥

दृष्टान्तबुद्धावेकात्मज्ञानशास्त्रार्थ वेदनात् ।

महावाक्यार्थसंसिद्धा शान्तिनिर्वाणमुच्यते ॥ २ ॥

तस्माद्दृष्टान्तदार्ष्टान्तविकल्पोल्लसि तैरलम् ।

यया कयाचिद्युक्त्या तु महावाक्यार्थमाश्रयेत् ॥ ३ ॥

शान्तिः श्रेयः परं विद्धि तत्प्राप्तौ यत्नवान्भव ।

भोक्तव्यमोदनं प्राप्तं किं तत्सिद्धौ विकल्पितैः ॥ ४ ॥

अकारणैः कारणिभिर्बोधार्थमुपमीयते।

उपमानैस्तूपमेयैः सदृशैरेकदेशतः ॥ ५॥

स्थातव्यं नेह भोगेषु विवेकरहितात्मना ।

उपलोदरसंजातपरिपीनान्धभेकवत् ॥ ६ ॥

दृष्टान्तैर्यत्नमाश्रित्य जेतव्यं परमे पदम्।

विचारणवता भाव्यं शान्तिशास्त्रार्थशालिना ॥ ७ ॥

शास्त्रोपदेशसौजन्यप्रज्ञातज्ज्ञ समागमैः।

अन्तरान्तरसंपन्नधर्मार्थोपार्जनक्रियः ॥ ८॥

तावद्विचारयेत्प्राज्ञो यावद्विश्रान्तिमात्मनि ।

संप्रयात्यपुनर्नाशां शान्तिं तुर्यपदाभिधाम् ॥ ९ ॥

Maharishi Vashishta said:

2.19.1: The distinct quality of an example is recognized in comparisons. When there is complete similarity, what difference remains between the example and the exemplified?

2.19.2: Through the understanding of examples, the essence of the scriptures is known, leading to the Realization of the great sayings, which is called the Peace of nirvana.

2.19.3: Therefore, one should avoid getting entangled in the distinctions between examples and their counterparts and, by any suitable means, rely on the meaning of the great sayings.

2.19.4: Know Peace as the highest good and strive diligently to attain it. When a delicious dish is obtained, what need is there for doubts about its preparation?

2.19.5: Examples are used for the sake of understanding, employing similar and dissimilar causes, where the example and the exemplified share partial similarity.

2.19.6: One should not dwell on pleasures with a mind devoid of Discrimination, like a frog bloated with pride, born in the hollow of a stone.

2.19.7: By relying on examples with effort, one should conquer the Supreme State. One must reflect with a mind endowed with the Essence of the scriptures of Peace.

2.19.8: Through the Teachings of the scriptures, the company of the Wise, and the practice of righteousness, one should engage in actions that lead to inner fulfillment.

2.19.9: The Wise should reflect until they attain Inner Peace, reaching the State of Eternal Tranquility, known as the Fourth State (Turiya), free from destruction.

Summary of the Teachings:

The verses from Yoga Vasishta 2.19.1 to 2.19.9, as translated above, emphasize the importance of Discernment, scriptural Wisdom, and focused effort in attaining Spiritual Peace and Realization. The text uses the metaphor of examples (upama) and their counterparts to illustrate how one can grasp profound Truths. The first verse questions the distinction between an example and what it exemplifies when their essence is fundamentally similar, pointing to the unity underlying apparent differences. This sets the stage for a teaching that encourages moving beyond superficial distinctions to focus on deeper Spiritual Truths.

The second and third verses highlight the role of scriptural understanding and the "great sayings" (mahāvākyas) in achieving the State of Nirvana, described as Ultimate Peace. The text advises against getting caught up in the minutiae of examples and counterexamples, instead urging the seeker to focus on the Essence of these Teachings. This reflects a practical approach to spirituality, where the goal is not intellectual debate but the direct Realization of Truth through contemplation and reliance on Wisdom.

The fourth and fifth verses underscore peace as the highest good and clarify the use of examples in spiritual instruction. The pursuit of Peace requires diligent effort, likened to enjoying a well-prepared dish without questioning its preparation. Examples, whether similar or dissimilar, are tools to aid understanding, but they are not the end goal. The teachings encourage a balanced approach, using analogies to clarify concepts while keeping the focus on the Ultimate aim of Inner Tranquility.

The sixth and seventh verses caution against indulgence in fleeting pleasures without discrimination, comparing such behavior to a frog ignorantly content in a confined space. Instead, the seeker is encouraged to use examples wisely and strive for the "Supreme State" through reflection grounded in the teachings of Peace. This call to disciplined effort and contemplation reinforces the idea that Realization is achieved through conscious, mindful practice rather than aimless indulgence.

Finally, the eighth and ninth verses emphasize the importance of surrounding oneself with Wise company, following scriptural guidance, and engaging in righteous actions to cultivate inner fulfillment. The Wise are advised to persist in reflection until they reach a State of Eternal Peace, referred to as the "fourth state" (turiya), which transcends destruction. Collectively, these verses advocate a disciplined, reflective, and purposeful spiritual practice, guided by Wisdom and aimed at attaining lasting Tranquility and Realization.