Chapter 3: Teachings of Vahlmeeki
Section 1: True Knowledge
1
Bharadvaja said: O Brahmin, having attained the state of liberation in life, I address you, Rama. Please tell me gradually, so that I may become happy. || 1 ||
Baradvaja said.
"Revered teacher, first please tell me about the state of enlightenment that Rama attained while still alive. And then, please teach me step by step the path to attaining enlightenment in this lifetime so that I may always be happy."
2
Śrī Vālmīki said. The illusion of this world is like the color of the sky. I think that forgetting is better than remembering. || 2 ||
Valmeeki said.
"The delusion that has arisen in this world is like colors appearing in the void. Holy one, I believe that it is best to not recall it again and to forget it completely."
3
Without understanding the meaning of the scene, one cannot experience it. Sometimes, through some means, self-awareness may be attained. || 3 ||
Without the awareness that something completely nonexistent, it is not experienced. Therefore, at some point, anyone should seek self-awareness.
| Phrase in the translation | Notes |
|---|---|
| Without the recognition that nothing exists as it appears, it cannot be experienced. | In context, this can be interpreted as meaning that a state of enlightenment is not experienced without the understanding that "nothing in this world exists as a real entity." However, the original text does not explicitly indicate what "it" refers to or provide the supplementary information that "it" is a state of enlightenment. This interpretation takes into account its connection with the following sentence: "You should seek self-awareness." |
4
It is possible, and this is the meaning of what has been said. If you study the scriptures, you will attain enlightenment; otherwise, not. || 4 ||
It is only here that this can be realized. This scripture was revealed for that purpose. If you listen to it, you will obtain the truth. There is no other way.
5
This world is an illusion; even though it appears to exist, it does not.
Like the sky, its colors are merely a product of thought.
O innocent ones, through this contemplation, you will effortlessly realize that this world, which appears to be an illusion, is visible but does not truly exist, like colors appearing in the void.
6
When the mind understands that there are no forms, it eliminates visual perception. If this is achieved, then liberation and nirvana will arise. || 6 ||
With the realization that "nothing can be seen," the image of the object is swept away from the mind. If this is accomplished, an unparalleled peace of Nirvana arises there.
7
Otherwise, you will be wandering aimlessly in the fields of study. There is no escape from unrighteous commands, even after many lifetimes. || 7 ||
Otherwise, people who are born with ignorance and delve into the depths of sacred texts will not find peace, no matter how many lifetimes they experience.
8
Without any desire, that is the best state. This is called liberation; it is a pure and perfect order for Brahmins. || 8 ||
To completely discard all latent tendencies, this is what is called liberation, revered teacher. That is the path to purity.
9
When desire diminishes, the mind quickly becomes still. Just as a dewdrop disappears in the morning sun. || 9 ||
When latent tendencies are exhausted, the heart melts away swiftly. Just as frost particles disappear when the chill subsides, revered teacher.
10
This body is like a garment worn by the soul, a cage of flesh. Within it, as if woven into its very fabric, is a thread of liberation. || 10 ||
This body, as an element contained within a vessel, is maintained by latent tendencies. It's like a thread that connects a group of enlightened beings, subtly woven within.
11
Desire is of two kinds, pure and impure. Impure desire causes birth; pure desire destroys birth.
It is said that there are two types of latent tendencies: pure and impure. Impure ones become the cause of rebirth, while pure ones end it.
12
Ignorance is like a dense fog, and arrogance is like a thick wall. Rebirth is caused by defiled desires and intellect. || 12 ||
Wise people call the state of being ignorant, possessing a strong sense of self, and having a potential tendency to bring about regeneration, an impure thing.
13
Having abandoned the sprout of rebirth, it remains like a withered seed. For the sake of the body, it is held, and it is said to be pure knowledge. || 13 ||
The potential tendency that is maintained to support the body, remaining like a roasted seed that has lost its sprouting bud, is called "pure" by those who know what should be known.
14
In beings who have attained liberation from rebirth, Desires exist; in a pure body, it is like the wandering of a wheel. || 14 ||
The bodies of people who attain enlightenment while still alive possess a pure, latent tendency that does not generate rebirth. What remains in the body is only a movement like the rotation of wheels.
15
Those who are free from worldly desires, and whose lives are dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, are called liberated souls.
They are wise and intelligent individuals. (15)
People who possess a pure potential tendency and will not again suffer the calamities of life are considered to be those who have known what is to be known. They are called liberated beings with great intelligence in their previous lives.
16
Just as Rama, the wise one, attained the state of liberation in his lifetime. Therefore, I will listen and tell you about it for the cessation of old age and death. || 16 ||
"I will tell you how Rama, who possessed great intelligence, attained the state of liberation in his lifetime, to alleviate the suffering of old age and death. Listen."