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Aṣṭāvakra Saṃhitā
A Dialogue on Self-realization
Poojya Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha
Chapter 18, Verse 32
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Ashtavakra Gita 18.32 - The 100-Verse Culmination on Self-Realization and the State of Jeevanmukti

तत्त्वं यथार्थमाकर्ण्य मन्द: प्राप्नोति मूढताम् ।
अथवा याति सङ्कोचममूढ: कोऽपि मूढवत् ॥ १८.३२ ॥

Ashtavakra Gita 18.32: English Transliteration

tattvaṃ yathārtham-ākarṇya mandaḥ prāpnoti mūḍhatām ।
athavā yāti saṅkocam-amūḍhaḥ ko’pi mūḍhavat ॥18.32॥

Ashtavakra Gita 18.32: Translation

After hearing the truth, the dull-witted remains foolish; while the discreet withdraws within, being shy, is silent, as though he is dumb.

Commentary by Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha

The truth is the same, ever present. It is the blissful Self every one has and is. Expert Knowers from time to time also expose it lovingly with irresistible inspiration. All the difference is in those who receive the exposure. The attraction of the senses and mind for the external world objects is so powerful, that people find it hard to regulate and sublimate it, as Kathopanishad points emphatically.

One in thousands, seeing the futility of pursuing the perishable objects begins to look inward for the imperishable splendorous treasure. When the Sadguru tells him fondly that the Self, the ‘I’, is the imperishable presence in the whole world, it is the sole witness of the entire world, the words strike him with supreme wonder, admiration, interest and focus.

Like Nachiketas before God of Death, Shaunaka before Angiras, his enquiry grows deep, irresistible. Between the two, perishable objects around the senses and the imperishable Self within his own body, he has no doubt that he should be after the inner blissful treasure. Every word of scriptures as well as Sadguru is nectar for him, while sensory objects are poisonous.

By focussing on the Self, he knows he loses nothing, but gains infinitely. Self is closer to him, nay himself, whereas body, senses and objects are away. His delight is in his mind and intelligence. He withdraws from sensory world, immerses in the perennial splendour and delight that the Self fountains forth!

Chapter 18: The 100-Verse Culmination on Self-Realization and the State of Jeevanmukti Verse 32
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