The Darkness Of Ages – In Gita Verse 18.35 And that determination which cannot go beyond dreaming, fearfulness, lamentation, moroseness and illusion – such unintelligent determination, O son of Pṛthā, is in the mode of darkness.
In Bhagavad Gita Verse 18.35, Krishna addresses the concept of determination that is hindered by negative emotions such as dreaming, fearfulness, lamentation, moroseness, and illusion. He categorises this type of determination as being in the mode of darkness, or Tamasi. In professional terms, Krishna emphasises the importance of mental clarity and focus, warning against the detrimental effects of an unsteady mind.
Krishna states, “O Partha, the Dhruti, i.e., Dharana, by which a person with an evil mind does not leave sleep, fear, worry, sorrow, and even madness, i.e., retains it, that Dhruti is Tamasi.” This verse underscores the significance of mental discipline and the dangers posed by a mind clouded with negativity and confusion.
The essence of being, according to Krishna, is a divine state. Knowing, on the other hand, is a function of nature. One can exist without knowing, but knowing cannot occur without being. Therefore, being is the foundational state, while knowing is secondary. Knowing is a derivative of nature and requires engagement with the world. Complete knowledge transcends nature and leads to a state of absorption in being, often referred to as God-feeling, Brahma-feeling, or Nirvana.
Krishna posits that one’s knowing is influenced by their inherent qualities. If one’s nature is tamasic, their knowledge and curiosity will also be tamasic. This implies that the quality of one’s knowledge is a reflection of their inner state.
Krishna further explains that those who are mired in dreams, fearfulness, and similar emotions are enveloped in darkness. However, this darkness, no matter how ancient, cannot extinguish the inner light. This concept is illustrated in the Vigyan Bhairav Tantra: “THE DARKNESS OF AGES CANNOT SHROUD THE GLOWING SUN; THE LONG KALPAS OF SAMSARA NE’ER CAN HIDE THE MIND’S BRILLIANT LIGHT.”
The metaphor of darkness and light is used to convey that negative emotions and ignorance (samsara) cannot obliterate the intrinsic brilliance of the mind. Even after wandering in darkness for countless lives, one’s inner light remains untarnished. Darkness, being a mere absence, cannot actively oppose or destroy light.
This understanding challenges the conventional notion of conflict between darkness and light. Darkness, being an absence, lacks the capacity to combat light. Similarly, negative emotions like anger and greed are not external forces attacking the self but are rather manifestations of forgetfulness of one’s inner light.
Krishna highlights that the real darkness is forgetfulness. This forgetfulness invites negative emotions such as anger, greed, lust, hate, and jealousy. These emotions do not attack uninvited; they are welcomed by the individual’s own forgetfulness. Thus, the antidote to this darkness is self-remembering.
Self-remembering is a practice that involves being conscious of oneself in every action. It is a discipline that requires constant effort and mindfulness. For instance, try to focus on the movement of the second hand on a wristwatch and remember that you are observing it. This simple exercise reveals the depth of one’s forgetfulness, as the mind is easily distracted by associated thoughts.
Achieving uninterrupted self-remembering, even for a minute, is a significant accomplishment. It signifies a state of mindfulness and presence that is often elusive. This practice of self-remembering is crucial for overcoming the darkness of forgetfulness and realising one’s inner light.
Krishna advises that self-remembering should be integrated into all activities. Whether walking, talking, or working, one should maintain an awareness of the self. This practice does not require verbalization but a silent, continuous awareness.
By cultivating self-remembering, one can transform their inner nature from forgetfulness to mindfulness. This transformation leads to a state of inner light, where negative emotions and distractions naturally dissipate. In this state, one’s actions are guided by clarity and purpose, free from the shadows of tamasic determination.
Krishna emphasises the importance of mental discipline and the practice of self-remembering. By overcoming the darkness of forgetfulness, one can realise their inner light and achieve a state of clarity and focus in their actions. This professional approach to Krishna’s wisdom offers valuable insights into achieving mental and emotional well-being.
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