T Ram Sewak

SOHAM ASMI

Kakabhushundiji further elucidates the Vigyanmaya Deep (Lamp of Wisdom) in Shri Ramcharitmanas 7.118.

Soham asmi . akhanda, deep .. prachanda.

"The constant, uninterrupted awareness "I am That" (Soham Asmi) is the most radiant flame of the lamp."

The illumination of the Vigyanmaya Deep is attained either through the power of deep meditation (Samadhi) or when the Guru imparts the teaching, "Tat Tvam Asi (You are That)." The disciple then internalises this profound dictum and proclaims, "Soham Asmi." This marks a critical moment in his spiritual journey.

Self-realisation is attained when the sadhak deeply contemplates and meditates (Nididhyasan) on this universal truth. He does not merely comprehend it intellectually but experiences it directly. He then affirms 'Soham Asmi' the realisation of oneness with Brahm. Essentially, while 'Tat Tvam Asi' is the seed, 'Soham Asmi' is the fruition of self-realisation.

Here, Tulsidasji echoes the fourth Mahavakya, "Aham Brahm Asmi (I am Brahm)." While "Soham Asmi" serves as a meditative affirmation for the sadhak's introspective contemplation of this truth, "Aham Brahm Asmi" is a direct declaration of the highest Vedantic knowledge. Nevertheless, both affirm the unity of the self (Atma) with the Supreme (Paramatma).

This verse also reflects Shri Krishna's proclamation in Gita 4.35, where he tells Arjun that knowledge of this truth eliminates even the possibility of delusion. Knowing this, he will perceive the entirety of creation within himself (Atma) and in Him (the Divine incarnation/Paramatma).

There is a focus on maintaining constant awareness of this truth because just as a lamp can be extinguished, the lamp of knowledge also faces numerous obstacles created by Maya (illusion). If shielded from these obstacles, it will remain consistent and eternal; otherwise, there will always be a fear of slipping into delusion.

Therefore, the sadhak must ever be in the constancy of the truth of the eternal unity of the Atma (Self) and Paramatma (Supreme). That is the unwavering, intensely radiant flame of his Vigyanmaya Deep! / DAILY WORLD /

The author is a former electrical Engineer and resides in the Himalayas. He can be occasionally reached at ramam.namami@gmail.com