Challenges – In Gita Verse 2.65 For one thus satisfied, the threefold miseries of material existence exist no longer; in such satisfied consciousness, one’s intelligence is soon well established.
When the conscience is purified, the distractions of a scholar’s sorrows are eliminated, leading to the establishment of the Brahmadarshini wisdom in a contented mind. This raises an intriguing question: Does a mind free from distractions result in a pure conscience, or does a pure conscience lead to a mind free from distractions? Krishna’s teachings in this verse present an understanding that is contrary to our ordinary perception of spiritual practice. Typically, we believe that separating distractions will purify the conscience. However, Krishna emphasises that a pure conscience inherently dispels distractions.
Misunderstanding this concept can lead to significant misconceptions, trapping one in a meaningless cycle of many births. The essence of science lies in understanding the cause and effect accurately, both in the external world and the inner self. Misinterpreting actions as causes and vice versa leads to erroneous practices. This is akin to a farmer who sows chaff expecting wheat to grow, not realising that only wheat can produce chaff as a byproduct, not the other way around.
A pure conscience naturally eliminates mental distractions and madness. Conversely, attempting to calm a restless mind without purifying the conscience only exacerbates the restlessness. Efforts to purify the conscience must begin with the understanding that the conscience is inherently pure. The deepest sutra of Sankhya philosophy asserts that the conscience is pure. Those who question how to purify the conscience assume it is impure without understanding its true nature.
Efforts to purify something inherently pure are futile and lead to frustration and despair. This is akin to trying to dispel darkness with a sword; darkness is merely the absence of light and cannot be removed by force. Similarly, the conscience is not impure; it is inherently pure. Misunderstanding this leads to unnecessary and fruitless efforts to purify it.
The conscience, as described in Sankhya philosophy, is distinct from the soul. It is the innermost instrument through which we connect with the external world. This is not to be confused with the societal conditioning often mistaken for conscience. True conscience is the purest form of internal awareness, free from societal impositions and judgments.
Krishna’s teachings guide us on a journey towards the purification of conscience. This journey reveals that the distractions and sufferings once experienced are merely like clouds that obscure the sun. Upon reaching the pinnacle of conscience, one experiences the clarity and light of the sun, free from the shadows of distractions.
Krishna’s use of the term “satisfied” suggests a return to one’s own consciousness, where the stresses and anxieties of the objective world cease to exist. This state of satisfaction emerges from realising one’s unity with existence, not through external knowledge or scriptures, but through self-awareness. The perception of stress and anxiety arises from the belief that one is separate from existence.
Blindly following cults or scriptures without understanding their essence leads to a loss of wisdom. True wisdom is not knowledge; it is an inner awakening that arises from within. Knowledge is external, acquired from the past, and exists within the confines of time. Wisdom, on the other hand, is eternal, existing only in the present moment.
Wisdom brings peace and contentment, while knowledge often leads to anxiety and discontent. Knowledge gratifies the ego, whereas wisdom dissolves it. Knowledge relies on distinctions and dualities, while wisdom unites and transcends them.
The wisdom of the heart, or the empty heart, arises from a state of no-mind – free from prejudices, knowledge, and content. This state of pure, simple silence is where true wisdom resides. In deep meditation, one experiences serenity, joy, and watchfulness, which eventually become a constant presence, guiding actions with clarity and grace.
Krishna’s compassionate teachings offer insights that cannot be taught but must be realised. By following his guidance, we can establish our own wisdom. Just as food is consumed, digested, and the residue discarded, knowledge should be used to create experiences and then let go. This continuous renewal of wisdom is essential for navigating the challenges of life.
Tags: Challenges
