T Ram Sewak

INDRIYA

After describing the obstacles posed by Maya for the jeev, Kakabhushundiji elucidates the challenges presented by the senses (Indriya) in Shri Ramcharitmanas 7.118. Using the metaphor, he states:

Indri .nana, ..thana

Buddhi batasa., bahori

"The sense organs of the human body are akin to numerous windows in the chamber of the heart. As soon as the gust of sensory temptations penetrates this chamber, the lamp of wisdom (Vigyanmaya Deep) is immediately extinguished. Thus, while the knot binding the Jarh (Matter) to Chetan (Spirit) remains untied, the light of Self-Realisation also vanishes, and Buddhi (intellect) becomes bewildered when buffeted by the force of sensual worldliness. Also, the stability of mind and wisdom are neither welcomed by the senses, which thrive on worldly pleasures, nor by Buddhi, which becomes distracted by material desires."

Kakabhushundiji's delineation of the role of the senses, the extinguishing of Vigyanmaya Deep, and the perplexity of the Buddhi echoes Shri Krishna's declaration in Gita 2.62-63 that when a person contemplates sensory pleasures, attachment develops, leading to desires. If a desire is obstructed, anger arises, resulting in the loss of wisdom and confusion about right and wrong. Once this wisdom is lost, self-destruction ensues.

Human desires begin as minor thoughts but evolve into attachment, frustration, and eventual downfall. Our senses serve as gateways that direct the mind towards external objects, fostering these cravings. If unchecked, these desires ensnare the jeev in the web of duality (dvandva). Therefore, the senses and the mind, which indulge in sensory pleasures, must be continuously monitored and controlled because the Vigyanmaya Deep is quickly extinguished when the senses overpower the intellect and cloud wisdom.

Thus, to keep the lamp of wisdom lit, one must guard against sensual distractions and practise self-control. Therefore, a determined sadhak should always remain vigilant, and even if he stumbles, he should stay focused, regain his composure, and continue towards his ultimate goal of transcending the dualities, i.e. dvandva-ateet! / DAILY WORLD /

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