Trust Yourself – In Gita Verse 1.14 On the other side, both Lord Kṛṣṇa and Arjuna, stationed on a great chariot drawn by white horses, sounded their transcendental conch shells.
In this verse from the Bhagavad Gita, we observe the profound symbolism of Lord Krishna and Arjuna, positioned on a grand chariot drawn by white horses, sounding their transcendental conch shells. This act is rich with meaning, reflecting their awareness and connection to both the objective and subjective worlds. They maintained a keen awareness of their surroundings without losing their inner connection. Upon hearing Grandfather Bhīṣma’s conch shell, they became even more vigilant, adhering to the discipline and decorum of their army. The blowing of their conch shells conveyed a message of transcendence, indicating their alignment with both the external and internal realms.
The positioning of Krishna and Arjuna on a great chariot with white horses, coupled with the sounding of their conch shells, symbolised their alertness to both the objective and subjective worlds. This act did not merely declare their power in the objective world but also highlighted their awareness of the subjective realm.
An individual who is alert understands that the objective world serves as a reference, while the subjective world is the source of action. Acting from the subjective world demonstrates humility, gratitude, and compassion towards the objective world. This approach does not reject the objective world but cooperates with it in great reverence, creating a serene environment.
Conversely, those who are entrenched in the objective world lack respect and love for themselves. Their will becomes paramount over divine will, leading to arrogant and disrespectful actions towards the objective world. They often exhibit haste, excitement, and anxiety.
In a previous blog post, Bhagavad Gita Verse 1.8, I discussed how we have misinterpreted Jesus’ teachings, leading to a dangerous doctrine of not using one’s will. While will is necessary, it must be attuned to God’s will, guided by one’s subjectivity. This alignment transforms personal will into divine will.
The difference between a person who is alert and one who is stuck in the objective world becomes evident in similar circumstances. In life, we often experience that when we are alert and silent, new doors of opportunity open for us. Conversely, when we are stuck, we cannot access these opportunities. The universe assigns us our next challenge only if our will is aligned with divine will.
Aligning our will with universal will can be achieved through mindfulness in our actions. Whether it is washing hands, eating, or any trivial act, performing these tasks with awareness can bring subtle enthusiasm. When alone, focus on the sensations and awareness of the act. When with others, shift the focus to creating a pleasant environment and engaging meaningfully with them.
Alertness towards both the objective and subjective worlds fosters humility. A humble person does not exhibit awareness of their flaws or shortcomings. They exist without ego or personality, and thus, without the associated defects. Trusting themselves, they respond unpredictably to each moment with alertness. Depending on the situation, they may fight or show compassion, always prioritising divine will.
An example of this is Mirabai, who, when asked to drink poison, did so without ill feeling and later left Mewar. When asked to return, she sought permission from Lord Krishna and never returned, merging with the divine. This illustrates the ultimate absorption into divine will.
Whatever task you undertake, do it with deep alertness. Even mundane activities like cooking or cleaning become sacred and worshipful when done with awareness. The essence lies not in what you are doing but in how you are doing it. Performing tasks mechanically misses the opportunity for inner transformation. Cleaning the floor with awareness not only cleans the floor but also brings a sense of inner cleansing.
Let every moment of your life be illuminated with awareness. Whether working, sitting, or walking, maintain a continuous thread of awareness. Allow the candle of awareness to burn brightly in each moment and every act.
Tags: Trust Yourself
