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महत्व देना और प्रेम करना || आचार्य प्रशांत, वेदांत पर (2020)
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4 years ago
Upanishads
Guru
Sensitivity
Love
Svadhyaya (Self-study)
Shruti
Value System
Intention
Description

Acharya Prashant explains that the Upanishads are tools that were invented to be used in a specific way. They were written down much later; originally, the tradition was of 'Shruti' (that which is heard). It was never intended for a person to simply pick up a book called an Upanishad and engage in 'Svadhyaya' (self-study). The entire concept was that these texts would be read only under the guidance of a Guru. When there is an explainer, the same verse can yield different meanings depending on the listener. The Guru, a living consciousness, can see and understand the disciple's life situation and interpret the verses accordingly. There is a definite danger in self-study, although it is better than not reading at all. Ultimately, everything depends on the purity of one's mind, which means the purity of one's ultimate desire and intention. If your intention is pure and you don't understand the Upanishads while reading, you will realize your need for a guide. However, if your intention is not pure and you fail to understand, you will either dismiss the text as useless or project your own nonsensical interpretations onto it. These are the dangers of proceeding with impurity. A guide reduces these risks. Acharya Prashant addresses the question of balancing sensitivity to one's inner state with daily tasks. He inverts the premise, stating that the inability to perform right actions is due to a lack of sensitivity. One fails to recognize the importance of the work. He uses an analogy: a sitar string resonates even with a slight touch because it is sensitive to the significance of the touch, unlike a pile of bricks. Sensitivity is knowing that a task is so important that even slight negligence is very costly. He further illustrates with an example of a person who delays getting life-saving medicine, not realizing the gravity of the situation. In daily life, when one is corrupt or dishonest, the death that occurs is subtle and not visible to the gross eyes. Due to dishonesty, one doesn't want to see it and fails to accept their role in this "murder." To give importance and to love are the same thing. One can only love what one values. If one's value system is flawed, they don't understand what is valuable and what is worthless. They remain entangled in their petty vices. Living with integrity, without dishonesty, has a different kind of joy, where one doesn't have to hide in fear.