Ashtavakra Samhita, Chapter Four,
The Knower of the Self

Ashtavakra and King Janaka

Translation and Commentary by Jayaram V


Index


Verse 1: Janaka said, "Oh, the stable minded knower of the Self who is engaged in the game of enjoyment bears no resemblance whatsoever to the deluded beings who are caught in the cycle of births and deaths." Commentary


Verse 2: Oh, that state which Indra and other gods eagerly seek but become unhappy for not attaining it, situated in that state, a yogi does not show any elation at all. Commentary

Verse 3: He who has known That (self) is untouched inside by good and evil, just as the sky is untouched by the smoke (or clouds) although it may appear so. Commentary


Verse 4: Who can prevent the great-souled one who has known this whole world as the Self from living by chance? Commentary


Verse 5: Of the four types of beings, from Brahma down to the last clump of grass, only the one with discerning knowledge is skillful in giving up attraction and aversion. Commentary


Verse 6: Rare is the one who knows the Self to be nondual and the lord of the universe. He who knows thus engages in actions anywhere (he deems fit) without any fear. Commentary


Suggestions for Further Reading

 

 

Translate the Page