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Chapter 17: Statement of the Pupil's Enlightenment
216 processes. It stays the same forever. During its infinite wandering, it has adopted the shapes of various bodies. It has faced pain and misery, which the bodies have been subjected to in different births. Regardless of all this, none of its (soul's) parts have been worn, damaged, mutilated, or fallen apart. Thus, not being subject to wear and tear, it is ageless and indestructible. Though abiding in the body for the time being, it is not a part thereof. Thus being different and distinct from the embodiment, the soul is transcendental.
Most people detest the impact of aging and therefore try to cover its symptoms of graying hair, wrinkles, etc. by dyeing, cosmetics, etc. Moreover, they generally remain scared of impending death. Thus almost every living being lives in fear relating to old age, disease, death, loss of wealth, loss of respect and status, etc. These fears arise out of considerations for the body. However, after realizing the true nature, one can make out that he is a soul, which is ageless, indestructible, and immortal. It is unbreakable, indivisible, inviolable, and non-combustible. No external situation is capable of afflicting it. As such, he feels free from fright. He has nothing to fear. Such a person stays fearless and indifferent to all states, which are subject to continual changes.
The phrase "Shuddha Chetanä Roop" used in this stanza needs some explanation. It refers to awareness, which is the main attribute of the soul. When one merely stays aware of what happens and remains indifferent to everything else, he can be said to be experiencing pure consciousness, which is the same as Shuddha Chetanä. This is awareness incarnate, and it is also known as Jnän Chetanä. In that state, it is possible to experience infinite bliss that is inherent in the soul. The pupil has now realized his own nature as being such consciousness imbibed with the above-mentioned four attributes.
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