Aṣṭāvakra Saṃhitā
A Dialogue on Self-realization
Chapter 2, Verse 7
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Ashtavakra Gita 2.7 - Self-Realization and the Nature of Consciousness
आत्माज्ञानाज्जगद्भाति आत्मज्ञानान्न भासते ।
रज्ज्वज्ञानादहिर्भाति तज्ज्ञानाद्भासते न हि
ātmājñānāj-jagad bhāti ātma-jñānān-na bhāsate .
rajjvajñānād-ahir-bhāti taj-jñānād-bhāsate na hi .. 2-7..
World shines by not knowing the Self. On knowing the Self, the world ceases to be. Ignorance about the rope makes the snake shine. In light when the rope is seen, the snake ceases to be.
Commentary by Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha
Janaka brings in another illustration. This is often quoted in Vedantic discussions. In dim light you notice a snake and become fearful. Instantly you bring light to be sure what you have seen. Ah, the sight is different. It is but a rope lying a little bent.
With proper discrimination, truthful introspection, when all ignorance and its effects are removed, then the truth of the Self will shine clearly. Ignorance is an inner effect and it works inside to bring its own outcome.
Knowledge is equally an inner development gained by truthful introspection. How strongly does ignorance work its magic! How well and clearly does knowledge throw its brilliant effect! The seeker should have sharp discrimination to discern ignorance, and strive to gain knowledge, which will instantly drive the delusion away!
The rope becoming a snake is not a transformation, pariṇāma. It is only a vivarta, superimposition. Such superimpositions are quite common in our life and experience.
In lack of proper light, a post will appear to be a ghost. Mother of pearl will appear to be silver. A fissure on the floor will also look like snake. Clear sight is the answer for all these delusions.
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