शमो दमस्तप: शौचं क्षान्तिरार्जवमेव च | ज्ञानं विज्ञानमास्तिक्यं ब्रह्मकर्म स्वभावजम् || 42 || |
|---|
Commentary
These qualities are considered virtuous and are essential for spiritual growth and self-realization. Let’s briefly explore each of these qualities:
Shama: It refers to the control of the mind and the ability to calm and quieten the internal chatter. It involves cultivating mental discipline and redirecting one’s thoughts towards higher ideals.
Dama: It refers to the control of the senses. It involves disciplining the senses and channeling their energy towards productive and virtuous activities.
Tapaḥ: It signifies austerity or self-discipline. It includes practices such as fasting, meditation, self-restraint, and the willingness to endure hardships for spiritual progress.
Shauchaṁ: It denotes cleanliness, both external and internal. It involves maintaining physical cleanliness and purity as well as purifying one’s mind and thoughts.
Kṣhāntiḥ: It represents forbearance, patience, and forgiveness. It is the ability to remain calm and composed in challenging situations and to forgive others’ faults and mistakes.
Ārjava: It denotes sincerity, honesty, and straightforwardness. It is the quality of being transparent, truthful, and free from deceit.
Jñānaṁ: It refers to knowledge, the understanding of spiritual truths, and the wisdom gained through study, reflection, and self-inquiry.
Vijñānam: It signifies higher or transcendental knowledge, the realization of the true nature of the self and the ultimate reality. It is the experiential understanding that goes beyond intellectual knowledge.
Āstikyaṁ: It signifies faith in the scriptures, in the teachings of the wise, and in the existence of a higher power or divine order. It is the trust and belief in the spiritual path and the pursuit of truth.
Brahma karma: It refers to performing one’s prescribed duties in a spirit of selflessness and dedication, recognizing that all actions are ultimately offerings to the divine. It involves aligning one’s actions with the divine will and surrendering the results of those actions to God.
These qualities, arising from one’s svabhāva, help individuals cultivate virtues, purify their minds, and progress on the path of self-realization. They contribute to inner peace, spiritual growth, and the harmonious functioning of society.
It is important to note that these qualities can manifest in varying degrees within individuals based on their predominant gunās (modes of nature). Satva gunā (mode of goodness) promotes the development of virtues such as knowledge, cleanliness, self-discipline, and faith. Rajas gunā (mode of passion) may exhibit qualities like ambition, desire for success, and a dynamic approach to work. Tamas gunā (mode of ignorance) can hinder the cultivation of virtuous qualities and lead to inertia, laziness, and ignorance.
Individuals are encouraged to cultivate and enhance the qualities that align with the mode of goodness (satva gunā). By practicing self-discipline, engaging in self-reflection, and seeking knowledge, one can gradually elevate their consciousness and move closer to self-realization.
It is important to understand that these qualities are not fixed or permanent. They can be developed and strengthened through conscious effort, self-awareness, and the guidance of spiritual teachings and practices. As individuals progress on their spiritual journey, they can experience a transformation in their behavior, mindset, and perception of the world.
Ultimately, the cultivation of these virtuous qualities leads to inner peace, self-mastery, and a deepening connection with one’s higher self and the divine. It is through the integration of these qualities into one’s daily life and actions that one can experience true happiness, spiritual growth, and the fulfillment of their life’s purpose.
Therefore, it is recommended to strive for the cultivation of the sattvic qualities and gradually transcend the influence of rajas and tamas, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.