React From Awareness – In Gita Verse 18.49 One who is self-controlled and unattached and who disregards all material enjoyments can obtain, by practice of renunciation, the highest perfect stage of freedom from reaction.
A man with an intellect free from attachment, devoid of desires, and guided by a living conscience attains the ultimate selfless accomplishment through renunciation. This state of supreme accomplishment is characterised by the attainment of the pure, eternal, and blissful God, Sachchidananddhaan.
Krishna’s teachings in the Bhagavad Gita Verse 18.49 emphasise that renunciation does not necessitate physical withdrawal from the world. He assures Arjun that renunciation is achieved by relinquishing the desire for the fruits of one’s actions, irrespective of one’s external circumstances. Krishna’s acceptance is unconditional and inclusive, recognising that the path to spiritual fulfilment can be diverse.
There is a common misconception that renunciation requires one to abandon worldly life entirely, retreating to isolated places like the Himalayas. Conversely, some believe that salvation is unattainable without becoming a monk. These polarising views often lead to misunderstandings and biases. Krishna, however, maintains a balanced perspective. He acknowledges that for some individuals, renunciation is a natural inclination, while for others, spiritual growth is possible within the confines of worldly duties.
Krishna’s impartiality is evident when he explains that different individuals have different natures. Some are naturally inclined towards a life of renunciation, while others find fulfilment in their roles as householders. Arjun, after understanding Krishna’s teachings, was ready to fulfil his duties as a warrior. This adaptability highlights that spiritual growth is not confined to a single path.
For some, like Mahavira, renunciation is an intrinsic part of their being. Such individuals do not impose renunciation upon themselves; rather, it emerges naturally from their existence. Krishna acknowledges that both paths – renunciation and household life – are valid. The key to spiritual attainment lies not in the external form of life but in the internal attitude of relinquishing the desire for results.
People have different natures, and forcing everyone into a single mould is neither practical nor beneficial. Those naturally inclined towards a life of renunciation would feel constrained in a household setting, just as householders would struggle in a monastic environment. Recognising and respecting these differences is crucial for spiritual harmony.
The importance of understanding one’s own nature, or Swadharma. Krishna advises that it is better to live and, if necessary, die in accordance with one’s true nature. This does not pertain to religious identity but to the innate qualities and inclinations that define an individual. Living in alignment with one’s Swadharma brings peace and fulfilment, even in the face of death.
Krishna’s guidance is devoid of bias. He suggests that if one finds it easier to remain active in the world, they should do so without attachment to the outcomes. Conversely, if one feels inclined to renounce worldly duties, they should do so without any desire for results. The essence of renunciation is the relinquishment of the desire for success and the feeling of being the doer.
React From Awareness: A response rather than a reaction. Responding with awareness transforms reaction into a mindful response. Every individual carries a mysterious being within, and this inner mystery can be unlocked through moment-to-moment alertness and response. Reaction, on the other hand, is a mechanical and deadened response to external stimuli.
An anecdote about Buddha illustrates this principle. While passing through a village where people were hostile to his teachings, Buddha remained calm and unperturbed despite their insults. His disciple, Ananda, was angered, but Buddha’s composed demeanour eventually frustrated the crowd. Buddha explained that he no longer reacted to insults but responded with compassion, understanding that the villagers’ anger was a reflection of their own suffering.
Buddha’s response exemplifies the difference between reaction and response. Reaction is driven by past conditioning and ego, while response arises from present-moment awareness and compassion. When someone is angry, a mindful response sees through their suffering and offers compassion rather than escalating the conflict.
Krishna’s teachings align with this principle. He advises that the response is always good and beautiful, while the reaction is bad and ugly. By avoiding reactions and fostering responses, one can navigate life with greater clarity and compassion. This clarity is achieved through deep meditation, which purges internal wounds and allows one to respond to situations with a clear and unbiased mind.
Krishna advocates for a balanced approach to life, recognising the diversity of individual natures. Whether one is a householder or a renunciant, the key to spiritual fulfilment lies in relinquishing the desire for results and responding to life with awareness and compassion.
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