Aṣṭāvakra Saṃhitā
A Dialogue on Self-realization
Chapter 17, Verse 14
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Ashtavakra Gita 17.14 -
सानुरागां स्त्रियं दृष्ट्वा मृत्युं वा समुपस्थितम् ।
अविह्वलमना: स्वस्थो मुक्त एव महाशय:
sānurāgāṃ striyaṃ dṛṣṭvā mṛtyuṃ vā samupasthitam .
avihvala-manāḥ svastho mukta eva mahāśayaḥ .. 17-14..
Seeing an amorous woman by his side or death close by, the high-souled one is not the least perturbed. Quite poised in the Self, he is liberated indeed.
Commentary by Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha
Approach to the Self is not through tension, stress or strain. Inculcating viveka, discrimination, and correspondingly vairagya, dispassion, is so beautiful, enriching and harmonious, their grace makes him feel light, moderate and sublime!
Spiritual qualities enrich and ornament inwardly, making the seeker shine in their lustre. While senses and sensory objects attract one with their powerful prevalence, spiritual grace enfolds the Knower from within. All virtues and excellences are optionally at work in his mind and intelligence. They are nourishing and stimulating at every step. His clarity, confidence and assurance are covetable. What frightens and deludes people, reinforces his poise and stability.
Whether death approaches or its opposite, he has no special concern or vacillation. In the passage of time, the body was born one day. The same time will lead the body to fall another day. The duration in between is equally led by the same handiwork!
Every morn is a fresh beginning, and evening a new refreshment. Nature is enchanting with its changeful notes. Objects are distant from him and Self the closest. What has greater influence then? The great Soul is naturally poised and full!
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