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Ätmasiddhi potential. For instance, sand does not have the potential to yield oil; hence however much one may try, oil cannot be extracted out of sand. But this aspect has only a theoretical significance, because no one would try to do anything unless there is potential for the same.
Endeavor is therefore the first vital factor. In a way, it covers the other factors. For instance, bringing together the auxiliaries can be considered a part of the endeavor. The selection of the right time is inherent in the right endeavor, because no sensible person would make the endeavor at the wrong time. Destiny is a double edged sword. Sometimes it yields to the right endeavor and sometimes it does not. That depends upon the Karma.
Bhavsthiti is sometimes taken as a state that leads to the end of the life cycle (liberation). But such a state cannot come forth in the absence of right perception, and that perception cannot arise without endeavoring for the purpose. Thus endeavor (Purushärtha) is the most vital factor. Of the five factors, that is the only one which is under our control in the present. The seers have therefore advised to undertake Purushärtha or right endeavor by assuming that destiny will be helpful. Therefore, this stanza exhorts the aspirants to resort to the right endeavor for realizing the true nature. The right endeavor consists of giving up the tendency of indulging in craving or aversion for worldly objects. Hence one should earnestly strive to overcome the sense of craving and aversion, and not indulge in indolence in the name of destined fate.
નિશ્ચયવાણી સાંભળી, સાધન તજવાં નો’ય; નિશ્ચય રાખી લક્ષમાં, સાધન કરવાં સોય.
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