Ashtavakra Samhita Chapter 6: Meditation on the Eternal Self
Summary: Chapter 6 contains 4 verses teaching meditative contemplation on the eternal Self. Ashtavakra uses four analogies to help Janaka realize the Self's unchanging nature: the Self is limitless like space while the world is jar-like; the Self is like the ocean and the world like a wave; the Self is like mother-of-pearl and the world like illusory silver; and the Self pervades all beings. Through each analogy, Ashtavakra emphasizes that for the Self there is neither renunciation nor possession nor destruction.
Note: Click on the links to read commentary
- Verse 1: Ashtavakra said: I am limitless like space. By nature, the manifested world is jar-like. This is knowledge. Therefore, for this (Self) there is neither renunciation nor possession nor destruction.
- Verse 2: I am like the ocean, and the world is like a wave. Therefore, for this (Self) there is neither renunciation nor possession nor destruction.
- Verse 3: I am like the mother of pearl; the illusory world is like the shining silver. Therefore, for this (Self) there is neither renunciation nor possession nor destruction.
- Verse 4: I am in all beings, and all beings are in me. Therefore, for this (Self) there is neither renunciation nor possession nor destruction.