When considering spiritual books in Sanatan Dharma, the Bhagavad Gita is widely seen as a guiding light during life's most difficult situations. However, are you aware that numerous different Gitas are available that offer spiritual instruction and profound teachings? Out of all these texts, the Ashtavakra Gita is particularly notable for its profound philosophical insights and spiritual importance.
While not as renowned as the Bhagavad Gita, the Ashtavakra Gita presents a distinct viewpoint on existence, awareness, and ultimate liberation. This work presents a conversation between Maharishi Ashtavakra and King Janak. Maharishi Ashtavakra shares profound insights that go beyond the physical realm and explore the essence of the self and the universe.
This article will examine the teachings of the Ashtavakra Gita, its significance in the contemporary world, and the lessons that our young generation can derive from this age-old scripture.
The Ashtavakra Gita is a profound spiritual text that explores the nature of the self and the ultimate reality. Attributed to the sage Ashtavakra, this ancient scripture offers deep insights into the concepts of non-duality, detachment, and self-realization. Through its teachings, the Ashtavakra Gita guides seekers on a journey toward spiritual enlightenment, emphasizing the importance of transcending the material world and recognizing the unity of all existence. Its timeless wisdom continues to inspire those on the path of self-discovery and inner peace.
Who Was Maharishi Ashtavakra?
Maharishi Ashtavakra was a renowned sage revered for his profound insight despite his physical abnormalities. Ashtavakra, named so because he was born with deformities in eight places, surmounted significant obstacles to achieve profound wisdom at a remarkably early age. The teachings included in the Ashtavakra Gita, which were documented, serve as evidence of his profound comprehension of the essence of existence and the individual.
Legend has it that Ashtavakra challenged his father over the essence of genuine knowledge, emphasizing that it is inherent within oneself rather than found in scriptures. The profound insight shared throughout the early years still resonates with those pursuing knowledge and understanding today.
The Teachings of Ashtavakra Gita
The Ashtavakra Gita is a philosophical conversation that delves into the essence of the self, consciousness, and the deceptive quality of the universe. In contrast to the Bhagavad Gita's emphasis on the pragmatic aspects of existence and moral duty, the Ashtavakra Gita explores the profound reality that transcends the physical realm.
1. Detachment Leads to Freedom
One of the core teachings of the Ashtavakra Gita is the importance of detachment. Maharishi Ashtavakra emphasizes that true freedom comes from detaching oneself from the material world and its transient nature.
In Chapter 11, known as the Gyanashtak, Ashtavakra explains that all the happenings in the world, including feelings, existence, and non-existence, are merely natural disturbances. These disturbances arise from nature and are not inherent to the self, which is pure consciousness.
To attain true freedom, one must detach from these disturbances and recognize that they are merely the play of nature. By doing so, one can transcend the world's troubles and achieve a state of inner peace.
bhāvābhāvavikāraśca svabhāvāditi niścayī |
nirvikāro gatakleśaḥ sukhenaivopaśāmyati || 1 ||
2. You Are the Universe
In Chapter 15, Sutra 12, Ashtavakra explains that the individual and the universe are inherently interconnected and not distinct entities. He elucidates to King Janak that the world is indistinguishable from the self, and one need not differentiate between what should be embraced or dismissed.
This teaching emphasizes the interconnectedness of all existence. Like a mother does not differentiate between her children, one should perceive the world and its events as an extension of oneself. This understanding results in a condition of non-duality when the boundaries between Atma (individual soul), Paramatma (Supreme Soul), Jagat (world), and Samsara (cycle of life) disappear.
tāta cinmātrarūpo'si na te bhinnamidaṃ jagat |
ataḥ kasya kathaṃ kutra heyopādeyakalpanā || 12 ||
3. The Path to Inner Peace
In a world characterized by rapidity, tranquillity is a scarce asset. Many individuals seek tranquillity by seeking external sources such as monetary things, social prestige, and relationships. Nevertheless, Ashtavakra teaches that genuine tranquillity emanates from one's inner self.
Ashtavakra elucidates in Chapter 18, Verse 66, that the world is a mirage for those lacking knowledge, who perpetually strive to satisfy their cravings. On the other hand, the wise have achieved mental tranquilly and do not become trapped in the deceptive nature of joy, sadness, deprivation, or acquisition. By understanding the inherent awareness of the mind, individuals can achieve a state of tranquillity that remains unaltered by external factors.
kva saṃsāraḥ kva cābhāsaḥ kva sādhyaṃ kva ca sādhanam |
ākāśasyeva dhīrasya nirvikalpasya sarvadā || 66 ||
4. The Illusion of Dharma and Moksha
Chapter 10 introduces a revolutionary concept proposed by Ashtavakra that questions traditional beliefs. He suggests that the act of seeking righteousness, known as dharma, might become a type of enslavement if it is undertaken with the anticipation of freedom or moksha.
According to Ashtavakra, genuine emancipation is achieved by relinquishing material cravings, emotional dependence on moral duty, and the longing for spiritual liberty. He compares dharma to a means of transportation that leads one to a specific destination. Upon arrival at the destination, it is necessary to abandon the vehicle.
This teaching highlights the significance of surpassing all attachments, including those regarded as noble, to achieve genuine freedom.
vihāya vairiṇaṃ kāmamarthaṃ cānarthasaṃkulam |
dharmamapyetayorhetuṃ sarvatrānādaraṃ kuru || 1 ||
Bhgvatgeeta also says--
sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekaṁ śharaṇaṁ vraja I
ahaṁ tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokṣhayiṣhyāmi mā śhuchaḥ II18.66II
5. The Illusory Nature of the World
The Ashtavakra Gita prominently explores the deceptive essence of the world. According to Ashtavakra, our perception of reality is an illusion constructed by the mind. This delusion perpetuates our entrapment within the perpetual cycle of birth and death.
To surpass this deceptive perception, one must comprehend the authentic essence of the self as untainted consciousness. This understanding disintegrates the individual self and the perception of unity with the cosmos.
6. The Importance of Self-Knowledge
Ashtavakra's teachings revolve around the central importance of self-knowledge. He asserts that genuine knowledge originates within rather than from external sources. One can achieve the ultimate truth by looking inward, as the self originates all knowledge.
Ashtavakra's teachings promote the exploration of profound truths that transcend the superficial parts of life. Self-awareness is the crucial factor for achieving freedom and enduring tranquillity.
7. Transcending Duality
The Ashtavakra Gita expounds on the notion that dualism is a deceptive perception fabricated by the cognitive faculties. Ideas such as morality, hedonism, and achievement are all dichotomous concepts that perpetuate our entrapment in the circle of samsara.
By surpassing the concept of opposites and understanding the unity of all things, one can achieve a condition of non-duality, where there is no distinction between the individual and the cosmos. The ultimate objective of spiritual practice is to attain a condition of non-duality.
8. The Role of the Guru
The guru in the Ashtavakra Gita is crucial in directing the pupil towards self-realization. As the guru, Ashtavakra gives profound insight to King Janak, enabling him to transcend the illusions of the human world.
The teachings underscore the need to have a guru who can offer assistance on the spiritual journey. The guru assists the disciple in navigating life's complexities and difficulties while guiding them towards the ultimate truth.
9. The Power of Surrender
Ashtavakra's teachings emphasize the need for surrender. He instructs that one might achieve internal liberation by relinquishing the ego and releasing all attachments.
This submission is not indicative of feebleness but rather a potent demonstration of harmonizing oneself with the authentic essence of existence. Surrender is how individuals might encounter the divine and achieve release.
10. Practical Applications for Modern Life
Although the Ashtavakra Gita is profoundly philosophical literature, its teachings can be applied practically in contemporary life. For instance, emphasizing detachment can assist individuals in effectively coping with stress and anxiety by redirecting their attention from external situations to internal mindfulness. Likewise, acknowledging oneself as part of the universe helps cultivate a feeling of interdependence and empathy in a world frequently fragmented by disparities.
The teachings of the Gita also promote a thoughtful approach to life. They emphasize the impermanent nature of all events and advise against excessive attachment to outcomes. This mindset can enhance resilience and emotional equilibrium when facing life's difficulties.
The Ashtavakra Gita is a timeless and profound guide to spiritual enlightenment. Its teachings on detachment, the nature of consciousness, and the illusion of Duality provide a pathway to ultimate freedom. While challenging in its philosophy, the Gita’s message is clear: true liberation comes from within and is accessible to anyone willing to look beyond the surface of worldly existence.
In today’s world, where material pursuits often overshadow spiritual growth, the Ashtavakra Gita reminds us of the deeper truths at the heart of human experience. By embracing these teachings, we can move closer to realizing our true nature and experience the peace and freedom that come with it.
Good one.