Own Scientist – In Gita Verse 3.40 The senses, the mind and the intelligence are the sitting places of this lust. Through them lust covers the real knowledge of the living entity and bewilders him.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Verse 3.40, Shree Krishna elucidates the origins of lust and its impact on the human soul. He identifies the senses, mind, and intellect as the primary domains where lust takes root. These faculties, intended for higher purposes such as self-realisation and the pursuit of knowledge, can become compromised when overwhelmed by desires. Under the influence of lust, the senses crave external objects, the mind becomes infatuated, and the intellect loses its ability to discern. This leads to a state where the individual becomes a servant to their desires, often engaging in actions they would not otherwise consider.
The senses, mind, and intellect are not inherently negative; their purpose is to facilitate our journey toward spiritual enlightenment. However, when we allow lust to dominate these faculties, they can lead us astray. Shree Krishna emphasises the need to reclaim control over these aspects of ourselves. By doing so, we can redirect their energies toward personal and spiritual growth.
Krishna’s discussion on the mind pertains to an individual’s nature and consciousness. He advises Arjuna to awaken his intelligence, or ‘Budh,’ which refers to the capability to perceive and understand reality with clarity. When intelligence becomes clouded by desire, it immediately results in confusion and a disconnection from one’s true self. The way to overcome desire involves fostering an understanding that goes beyond simply acquiring knowledge. It entails developing a true ability to grasp and connect with the essence of existence.
True understanding, as Krishna suggests, is not about amassing information or gaining recognition through academic achievements. It is about developing an intrinsic ability to perceive and understand the world. Knowledge can often create an illusion of understanding, whereas genuine insight comes from a deeper, experiential connection with reality. This distinction is crucial, as relying solely on second-hand knowledge can lead to a superficial grasp of truth, whereas firsthand understanding requires courage and exploration.
Krishna’s teachings emphasise the importance of transcending desire and lust by evolving from merely acquiring knowledge to becoming a ‘knower.’ This distinction highlights that while knowledge provides a necessary foundation, true understanding emerges through personal experimentation and introspection. This approach mirrors the scientific method, where individuals act as observers of their subjective experiences. By diligently examining and understanding our internal states, such as anger and desire, we can gradually reduce their influence over our lives.
Engaging in this introspective journey facilitates the attainment of inner peace and clarity. In such a state, individuals are no longer confused or swayed by desires or external influences. Instead, they achieve a blissful existence characterized by heightened self-awareness and harmony. Krishna’s teachings encourage us to become the scientists of our own consciousness, meticulously observing and transforming our inner world to align with our higher purpose. Through this transformative process, we can overcome the limitations imposed by lust and achieve a state of true enlightenment.
Krishna likens this journey to that of a scientist, who utilizes objects as resources and views outcomes as further resources for exploration. Similarly, as individuals, we must engage with our subjective world, acting as constant observers of our inner selves. By becoming our own scientists of subjectivity, we can systematically identify and address emotions such as anger, desire, and restlessness. Through this vigilant self-observation, these disruptive states gradually dissipate, allowing us to attain a more serene and balanced existence.
In this blissful state, individuals find themselves free from bewilderment and confusion. By embracing the role of an ‘Own Scientist,’ we cultivate a deep understanding of our inner workings, leading to a harmonious alignment with our true purpose. This process not only liberates us from the clutches of desire and lust but also empowers us to live a life marked by self-awareness and tranquility. Krishna’s guidance invites us to embark on this profound introspective journey, encouraging us to transform our consciousness and achieve enlightenment through the diligent exploration of our inner world.
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