Self Awareness Through Meditation

Author(s): Ranjitsingh Kumat
Publisher: Ranjitsingh Kumat

Page 81

SELF AWARENESS THROUGH MEDITATION
Moving in one direction steadfastly and braving the opposite forces doggedly, one can become free from desires and thoughts which overcrowd us. This is what has been said:
"Move in one direction steadfastly and face the opposite forces bravely, Become free from desires and thoughts, Dwelling in equanimity, Pragya (wisdom) and the self Cannot commit sin or do wrong act”. 84 Equanimity is silence of body, mind and speech. “One, who witnesses equanimity, witnesses silence, One, who sees silence, sees equanimity.”85 Residing in Silence, destroys the body of Karmas, Equanimitous brave remains indifferent and endures scarcity.986
Silence does not mean mere control of speech; it is total silence of mind, body and speech. This silence comes only when one becomes disinterested in the worldly riches, glamour and acquisitions. One who is indifferent, is silent because he does not want anything and his mind is free from all worries; he is in equanimity. Thus silence of mind, body and speech is synonymous with equanimity. Once in silence, he destroys Karmas or the bondage. He loves to live in scarcity or frugality. His activities are devoid of any interest or lust, hence not adding to the stock of Karmas.
‘Dhutwaad' or the Doctrine of destruction of Karmas
Chapter six of the Aachaaraanga Sutra deals with destruction of Karmas. It draws attention of the aspirant to the prevailing distress in the form of disease, torture, violence etc. The remedy recommended is to understand the distress, the death, the constant chain of creation and destruction. One should see the fact as it is and remain free from lament.
Those interested in destroying the Karmas should give up craving for worldly things and relations. Examine the following stanza:
"Great Muni (Great Saint) knowing all cravings, gives up all previous connections (with things and people) Dedicated (to his chosen path) thinks 'he is alone and ‘none belongs to him Endeavoring, aloof, aspirant moves totally shorn in all respects”87