Sound Of Silence – In Gita Verse 2.66 One who is not connected with the Supreme can have neither transcendental intelligence nor a steady mind, without which there is no possibility of peace. And how can there be any happiness without peace?
Bhagavad Gita Verse 2.66 states that one who is not connected with the Supreme can neither possess transcendental intelligence nor a steady mind, without which peace is unattainable. Without peace, happiness is impossible. This profound verse provides a framework for understanding the necessity of inner connection for achieving true peace and happiness.
An uneducated man, in this context, refers to someone lacking in spiritual wisdom and self-awareness. Such an individual lacks emotional depth and inner peace, thereby missing out on true happiness. The terms “yukt” and “ayukt” are pivotal here. “Ayukt” means being disconnected from oneself, while “yukt” signifies being united with one’s true self.
It may seem paradoxical to discuss breaking away from oneself, as it is inherently impossible to be separate from oneself. However, in a metaphorical sense, individuals can experience a disconnection from their inner being. This disconnection is akin to being in a dream where one believes they are somewhere they are not. For instance, one might dream of being in Calcutta while physically remaining in Ahmedabad. The anxiety and turmoil experienced in the dream are real to the dreamer, but upon waking, they realise they never left Ahmedabad. This analogy illustrates how people can be under the illusion of being disconnected from their true selves.
Krishna’s teachings emphasise that no one is truly disconnected from themselves; rather, they are under the illusion of separation. This illusion can be shattered by awakening to one’s true self, realising that they were never truly separated. This awakening brings about a profound sense of peace and harmony.
The uneducated man, as described, lacks genuine emotions. It is crucial to distinguish between true emotions and mere sentimentality. True emotions are not transient or dependent on external circumstances. For instance, a man might cry over his son’s illness, but his emotions vanish upon discovering that the son is not biologically his. This reaction reveals that his emotions were not genuine but rather a false illusion of attachment.
True emotions, as Krishna describes, arise in those who are united with themselves. Such individuals are absorbed in their true nature and are not swayed by external circumstances. This inner unity, or “yukt,” leads to a state of inner peace and contentment. Even in the face of external turmoil, a person who is united with themselves remains calm and composed. This inner peace is independent of external factors and is a source of true happiness.
The significance of engaging with one’s inner subjectivity to achieve peace and happiness cannot be overstated. This engagement is an internal realisation, independent of the external world. It is through our own inner light that we connect with our subjectivity, perceive it, comprehend it, and directly experience the resulting silence and bliss. When individuals establish this connection with the universe through their inner subjectivity, they encounter a profound sense of tranquillity and happiness. This inner connection is a personal journey that cannot be facilitated by others; it is a path each individual must navigate independently.
Reflecting on personal experiences can help illustrate this concept. During moments of emotional turmoil, a slight shift in self-awareness can lead to relaxation and inner peace. This experience of relaxation is a glimpse of one’s true self and their connection to the universe. This realisation is what Krishna refers to as Transcendental Intelligence.
Silence, often misunderstood as mere absence of noise, is a positive and existential state. It is filled with an inner music, fragrance, and light that can only be perceived through the inner senses. These inner senses, often referred to as the “third eye” in Eastern traditions, allow individuals to explore their inner world. This inner exploration leads to a profound sense of silence and peace.
The silence of the heart is a unique experience, filled with an inner song devoid of words and sounds. This silence is the foundation for the growth of love and compassion. Meditation is the key to unlocking this inner silence and connecting with one’s true self.
Once this real silence is experienced, it permeates one’s actions, infusing them with a different kind of intelligence. This intelligence, akin to the sweetness of sugar dissolved in milk, is not separate but is felt in every action. This state of being merged with the universe is what Krishna refers to as Compassion.
Krishna’s message to Arjuna, and to all of us, is that we are an integral part of the universe. This realisation can only be achieved through self-awareness. Once connected with our subjectivity, we transcend our animal nature and unconsciousness, entering a state of consciousness. This self-consciousness brings about inner silence and bliss, which Krishna identifies as true Intelligence. The “Sound Of Silence,” as Krishna describes it, is the embodiment of this Intelligence.
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