Ashtavakra Samhita Chapter 7: The Nature of the Self
Summary: Chapter 7 contains 5 verses expressing Janaka's realization of the Self's true nature. He describes himself as a boundless ocean in which the world moves like a boat, appearing and disappearing like waves, yet never disturbing or diminishing him. He recognizes that he is supremely peaceful, formless, and abides in himself alone. Neither the Self exists in objects nor objects in the Self. Janaka declares himself to be pure consciousness and the world a magical illusion, transcending all concepts of acceptance or rejection.
Note: Click on the links to read commentary
- Verse 1: Janaka said: In the boundless ocean that exist in me, the world moves hither and thither like a boat, propelled by its own self-driven winds. I am not disturbed by that.
- Verse 2: In the boundless ocean in me, the world may appear and disappear like a wave because of its own nature, but it neither increases me nor decrease me.
- Verse 3: In the boundless ocean within me, the creation named the universe happens. Yet, I am supremely peaceful and formless, and I abide in me alone.
- Verse 4: Neither I am in the objects nor the objects are in me, who is by nature infinite and blemishless. Hence, disinterested (detached), desireless and peaceful, I abide in myself alone.
- Verse 5: Oh, I am consciousness only. The world is verily a magical illusion. Therefore, how and where can the thought of accepting or rejecting it arises in me?