Ashtavakra Gita 3.2 -

Maharshi Ashtavakra is clear about how wholesome and overwhelming Self-realization is. Knowledge and ignorance is a pair of opposites. Only when one does not have Self-knowledge, will he be drawn to the external objects, says firmly the Sage.

What the seeker should first do is to reflect assiduously upon the fleeting nature of all the objects surrounding him, including his own body. That is bound to generate the natural response called vairāgya, dispassion. The dawning of dispassion can be instantaneous. Janaka’s initial question included vairāgya too. Has not the king become clear now about vairāgya, dispassion?

In dim light, an object before you may look in a certain way, generating its own reaction in your mind. A mother of pearl may look like silver, a rope like a snake. But the same object, in the presence of light, will reveal its true nature. Instantly the mind drops its wrongly generated reaction. Here what works is ignorance first and knowledge next.

When the mind is gripped by ignorance or delusion, then alone superimposition and misunderstanding intercept. The only course to rectify the situation, is to have right knowledge. Possibility for both is there in human life. Knowing this, be wise before the event. Avoid undue victimization.

Spiritual pursuit means right application of mind and intelligence.