T Ram Sewak

GYAN (NIRABHIMAN)

After explaining the intricacies of Maya, Shri Ram gives its antidote in Shri Ramcharitmanas (3.15).

"Gyan maan jahan ekau naahin "

" In spiritual wisdom, there is no blemish like pride, etc., ..."

Although Lakshman's first query was on Gyan, Shri Ram strategically describes it after elucidating the nature of Maya. Here, Gyan signifies not merely knowledge or learning but a profound understanding. It is the antidote to go beyond the illusionary Avidya Maya.

In Gita (13.8-12), Shri Krishna delineates Gyan, outlining moral qualities and ascetic practices conducive to spiritual awakening. True to his promise to Lakshman to explain everything in brief, Shri Ram summarises beautifully that Gyan begins with Nirabhimanthe absence of self-pride.

Arrogance and pride originate from the illusion of 'I' and 'mine', 'you' and 'yours' Gyan is comprehending this unreality and transcending it. Shri Ram's sequence of explaining Maya before Gyan underscores the necessity of this progression.

Gita (13.8) begins by underscoring Amaanitvam, stressing the absence of egoistic self-pride. Humility or absence of pride is thus the anchor of that Gyan (understanding), which enables an understanding of Avidya Maya. By conquering pride and abandoning arrogance, one develops an understanding of the transient nature of creation, including our own physical form. This understanding helps unravel the intertwined illusory aspects of Vidya and Avidya Maya.

The brevity of mentioning "pride, etc." is intentional, representing the significance of humility. Pride (Ahankar) is regarded as the worst of the shadripu, the six enemies of the mind, alongside Kaam, Krodh, Lobh, Moh, and Matsary. Ahankar, the ego, when combined with material creation (Vidya Maya), ensnares individuals in the illusory dualitythe Avidya Maya.

Illustrating the potency of Gyan as the antidote to Maya, Shri Ram imparts Gyan (wisdom) to Tara, Bali's widow, in Shri Ramcharitmanas (4.11), dispelling her delusion. This narrative serves as a poignant example of how understanding, rooted in humility, can liberate individuals from the enchantments of illusion. / DAILY WORLD /

Namami Ramam Musings-39

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