Continuing "Shankara's Bhaja Govindam: Chronicle of an Abduction in Varanasi" - (Part 2 of 4)
From resentment to action
Greetings again, fellow travellers,
Before we dive back into ancient Varanasi, a quick personal note. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of working on this very post from a truly special setting: Posillipo beach, right here in Naples, my hometown. For those unfamiliar, "Posillipo" derives from the Greek Pausílypon (Παυσίλυπον), meaning "pause from pain" or "respite from worry" – quite an appropriate name! It's a stunning coastal hillside overlooking the iconic Bay of Naples, offering breathtaking views (including Mount Vesuvius on a clear day).
To give you a feel for it, I attach a short video I took while there to this post on Substack. The clip shows the view across the bay and ends focusing on the evocative Palazzo Donn'Anna, a historic 17th-century noble palace built right on the sea, famously left unfinished. Preparing this second instalment of Shankara's story, surrounded by such beauty and history, was particularly inspiring and made contemplating ancient wisdom feel even more profound.
So, with that fresh Neapolitan perspective, welcome back to our serialised journey into ancient Varanasi with Adi Shankara.
In Part 1, we witnessed the fateful encounter between Shankara and the scholar Raghav, Shankara's composition of the timeless Bhaja Govindam, and Raghav's tragic descent from spiritual pride into vengeful plotting.
Now, in Part 2, the chronicle intensifies as Raghav sets his vengeful plan in motion. We witness the dramatic consequences and the tense, profound dialogue that unfolds between the steadfast sage and the increasingly tormented scholar. While Shankara continues to offer wisdom even under duress, the ripple effects of events are felt in Varanasi, and the seeds of doubt begin to stir within Raghav himself. Following the chapters, we'll reflect on the ethical dimensions of responding to adversity, maintaining resilience, and the quiet power of truth.
Let's continue the story...
Chapter 3: Chronicle of an Abduction in Varanasi
As the days passed, Raghav's obsession with revenge grew stronger. He spent his time plotting and scheming, determined to abduct Adi Shankara and force him to reveal the secret of immortality. Raghav believed that by obtaining this knowledge, he could regain his lost dignity and prove himself superior to the philosopher who had humiliated him. In the shadows of Varanasi's narrow alleys, Raghav enlisted the help of a group of thugs, promising them wealth and power in exchange for their assistance in his plan. Together, they carefully observed Adi Shankara's daily routine, noting the places he frequented and the people he interacted with. They waited for the perfect opportunity to strike when the philosopher would be most vulnerable.
One evening, as Adi Shankara and his disciples were returning to their ashram after a day of teaching and debating, Raghav and his accomplices ambushed them. The disciples, taken by surprise, were quickly overpowered, and Adi Shankara was captured. Raghav's men bound and gagged the philosopher, dragging him away from his followers and into the darkness of the night.
As word of Adi Shankara's abduction spread throughout Varanasi, the city was gripped by shock and fear. The philosopher's disciples, devastated by the loss of their beloved teacher, vowed to do everything in their power to find him and bring him back safely. They sought the help of the local authorities and the community, who were equally concerned about the fate of the revered spiritual leader.
Meanwhile, Raghav had taken Adi Shankara to a hidden location, where he intended to interrogate him and extract the secret of immortality. Despite his anger and resentment, Raghav could not help but feel a sense of awe in the presence of the philosopher, whose calm demeanour and unwavering faith seemed to defy the dire circumstances.
As Raghav questioned Adi Shankara, demanding that he reveal the secret of immortality, the philosopher remained composed and resolute. He explained to Raghav that the true path to immortality was not through the acquisition of secret knowledge but through the cultivation of wisdom, devotion, and self-realisation. Adi Shankara urged Raghav to let go of his anger and resentment and to seek the divine within himself.
Raghav, however, was not swayed by Adi Shankara's words. His heart was hardened by bitterness, and he refused to accept the philosopher's teachings. Frustrated by his inability to extract the information he sought, Raghav decided to take more drastic measures, threatening Adi Shankara with torture and death if he did not comply.
As the situation grew more dire, Adi Shankara's disciples continued their search for their missing teacher. They followed every lead, questioned every witness, and prayed fervently for his safe return. Their determination and faith were unwavering, and they refused to give up hope.
Back in the hidden location, Adi Shankara remained steadfast in the face of Raghav's threats. He knew that his life was in danger, but he also understood that the true nature of existence was beyond the confines of the physical body. He continued to speak to Raghav about the importance of spiritual understanding and the futility of seeking immortality through worldly means.
As the days passed, Raghav's frustration grew, and he began to doubt the success of his plan. He could not break Adi Shankara's spirit, and the philosopher's words began to resonate with him, stirring something deep within his soul. Raghav found himself questioning his motivations and the path he had chosen, wondering if there was a better way to find redemption and peace. During this inner turmoil, Raghav was faced with a choice: continue down the path of anger and revenge, or embrace the wisdom of Adi Shankara and seek a new beginning. The outcome of this decision would not only determine the fate of Adi Shankara and Raghav but also shape the future of Varanasi and the lives of those who called it home.
One day, a disciple came upon the hut where Adi Shankara was held. Astounded at seeing Adi Shankara trapped yet composed and radiating peace, the disciple hid to overhear the exchanges with Raghav and devise a rescue plan. That night, the disciple returned under the cover of darkness, cutting Adi Shankara's bonds without alerting the guards.
They sprinted for the door, desperate to escape. But Raghav materialised in the entryway, blocking their only exit.
His eyes blazed with rage and vengeance as he spotted the betrayal. With an enraged bellow, Raghav drew his sword and charged at the disciple, seeking to teach him a brutal lesson. Adi Shankara cried out, rushing forward to stand between the disciple and the descending blade meant for him.
The disciple pushed Adi Shankara aside but yelled in agony as the blade sliced through flesh, cutting deep into his arm down to the bone.
Blood spurted freely as the disciple crumpled to his knees, gritting his teeth against the piercing pain. Adi Shankara whirled on Raghav, his voice thundering with indignation. "None has the right to harm another!" he declared. "Compassion, not violence, is the path to wisdom!"
Adi Shankara's gaze softened as he looked upon Raghav. "Each has a divine spark, though some choose darkness. If you continue down this violent path, you'll know only suffering."
Raghav's sword clattered to the floor as he realised his mistake, looking into the merciful eyes of his guru. The disciple moaned in agony, clutching his mangled arm. Blood poured from the ghastly wound, flowing in a tiny river between Adi Shankara's feet.
Shankara's Reflection
(Chapter 3.1)
Obsession with vengeance grew - scheming to abduct me, extract immortality's secret and regain lost pride by proving superiority. In the alleys recruiting thugs with promises of wealth and power to observe me, waiting to strike when vulnerable. Returning from teaching, I was ambushed and bound, dragged into the night - disciples overpowered, unable to prevent it. Varanasi was gripped by shock and fear, my loss devastating followers who vowed to find me, seeking help from authorities and the community alike. Taken to a hidden place for interrogation, Raghav felt awe in my presence - my calm defying circumstance. Demanding the secret of immortality, I explained the true path was wisdom, devotion, and self-realisation, urging him to let go of anger and resentment and seek the divine within. His hardened heart refused acceptance, and threats of torture and death followed when my answers were not to his liking.
Disciples continued the search, following every lead, questioning all, praying - faith resolute, refusing to lose hope. Steadfast though my life was in danger, understanding existence beyond the body's confines. Speaking still of insight's import, the futility of worldly means to immortality.
Days passed, and his frustration grew with the plan's success unlikely - unable to break my spirit, his words resonating, stirring his soul. Questioning motivations and chosen path, seeking a better way to redemption and peace. A choice arose - continue with anger and revenge or embrace wisdom and find a new direction. The outcome shaped destinies - his and mine, Varanasi and all within. My friend, the bonds of karma hold us fast to chosen paths until grace awakens insight, revealing another way. Each moment the opportunity arises to step free of past regret and future fear into wisdom's light. The secret long-sought remains undiscovered, hidden in plain view - the Atman, eternal and complete, serene. No worldly path leads here, nor formula or rite - only reflection, born of grace. Let go of insistence on life shaped by pride or circumstance. Seek first thy soul's release from vain imaginings and there find Me awaiting - thy true Self, sole reality and home.
Threat and force are futile, insight cannot be compelled. Yet patience, faith and trust may coax the bud to blossom in its season. Dear Raghav, look within - the answers you seek reside in the secret chamber of the heart. I offer wisdom born of vision - turn awareness inward, allow the world to fall away. In that silent place abides the truth alone, felt as peace pervading, joy unbound. Here find thy immortality, not of the flesh but of the spirit's eternity. Each path holds the promise of this goal through the secret rhythms of the soul. Vengeance yields to wisdom when grace descends - its touch awakens insight and restless seeking ends. Steadfast on the way which calls you home, the obstacles once seeming insurmountable dissolve, obstacles no more but opportunities appearing to strengthen that resolve. Dear friend, the choice is ever yours - to live ensnared in pride and circumstance or seek redemption in the Self supreme, turning darkness into light. I show the way through vision, through words that point beyond all words and sight.
The rest remains for you to walk each step through inner grace and wisdom's guiding light. Here, true dignity is found - bowing at the altar of the eternal, one without a second, all within. No secret here nor mystery, but open truth reflected for any eye awake enough to see. The true guru abides within as a voice of intuition - follow without fear and find thy way to immortality eternal, free of time's devouring sway. This realm of light and grace eternal holds salvation - each flickering lamp lights the way therein. Let go of confusions born of sense and seek sole refuge and abode in wisdom infinite, pure consciousness, the ground of being, the immortal Self of all that seems to be. Here shall redemption dawn for all who choose to walk this ancient way.
Chapter 4: The Bhaja Govindam continued to spread
As the news of Adi Shankara's abduction spread throughout Varanasi, the teachings of the Bhaja Govindam became even more significant to the people of the city. The verses, which emphasised the importance of devotion to God and spiritual understanding, served as a source of strength and inspiration for those who were deeply affected by the philosopher's disappearance.
Amid the turmoil, the Bhaja Govindam continued to spread far and wide, reaching the hearts and minds of countless individuals. The text's profound wisdom resonated with people from all walks of life, inspiring them to seek a deeper connection with the divine and to cultivate a greater understanding of the true nature of existence. As the search for Adi Shankara continued, his disciples found solace in the teachings of the Bhaja Govindam. They recited the verses daily, drawing strength from their beloved teacher's words and using them as a guiding light in their quest to find him.
The disciples' unwavering faith and devotion to the teachings of Adi Shankara served as a testament to the power of the Bhaja Govindam and its ability to transform lives. Meanwhile, Raghav's anger and resentment continued to fester. He could not escape the growing influence of the Bhaja Govindam, as its teachings seemed to permeate every corner of Varanasi. The more he heard about the text and its impact on the people, the more his fury grew. Raghav became increasingly determined to exact his revenge on Adi Shankara and to prove that the philosopher's teachings were nothing more than empty words.
As the days turned into weeks, the search for Adi Shankara continued without success. The people of Varanasi began to lose hope, fearing that their beloved philosopher might never be found. However, the teachings of the Bhaja Govindam continued to provide solace and guidance, reminding them of the importance of devotion and spiritual understanding in the face of adversity.
In the hidden location where Adi Shankara was being held captive, the philosopher continued to share his wisdom with Raghav, despite the constant threats and intimidation. Adi Shankara's unwavering faith and resilience in the face of danger served as a powerful example of the teachings of the Bhaja Govindam in action.
As Raghav's anger began to wane, he found himself at a crossroads. He could continue down the path of revenge, fueled by bitterness and resentment, or he could choose to embrace the wisdom of the Bhaja Govindam and seek a new beginning. The decision he made would not only determine the fate of Adi Shankara but also shape the future of Varanasi and the lives of those who called it home.
The verses of the Bhaja Govindam echoed through the streets, a reminder of the power of devotion and the transformative potential of spiritual understanding. The teachings of Adi Shankara continued to touch the hearts of the people, offering hope and solace in the midst of uncertainty and despair.
The holy city of Varanasi was still and quiet in the early morning darkness. Devotees were gathered on the ghats of the Ganges, waiting in meditation for the new day to begin.
One minute before sunrise, a young saint opened his eyes from deep samadhi. He watched the devotees around him with the wisdom and compassion of one who had glimpsed the Truth. To him, their faith - their shraddha - was like a bird that feels the light even when the dawn is still dark. Though the sun had not yet risen in their minds, still they persevered in devotion, nourished by an inner certainty.
The saint saw an elderly woman sitting in prayer, her eyes closed but her face lit with peace. Though aged, her spirit remained vibrant, burning with the flame of devotion. Her shraddha sustained her through the night.
A leper slowly made his way to the river to bathe, dipping his disfigured hands into the sacred waters. Though afflicted physically, his soul soared high above his suffering. His inner light of faith gave him wings.
The first rays of the rising sun spread across the river, illuminating the scene in a soft golden glow. All distinctions faded as the saint was filled with joy, seeing the one Atman in all beings. Their shraddha, their inner light of faith, revealed their shared essence and eternal truth. The sun rose above the horizon, bathing the ghats in a new day's promise. Yet for the saint, the vision remained - of souls illuminated from within by the light of shraddha, the bird that feels dawn's light, even in the still-dark night.
The golden hues of dusk bathed the ghats of Varanasi in a warm glow as throngs gathered for the Ganga Aarti. The air was thick with the aroma of incense, the din of crowds and the chanting of hymns. As elders lit the diyas, their hands trembled in remembrance of loved ones gone yet still present. Children laughed, chasing each other in delight at the festivities. A palpable energy infused the space as flickering flames came to life, reflecting in the rippling waters of the sacred river.
At that moment, sorrow lifted, differences fell away, and mankind was united in shared devotion. The profound teachings of the Bhaja Govindam resonated in every heart, a reminder of divinity's immanence and wisdom found within. Though uncertainty still gripped the city, faith sustained hope Adi Shankara might yet return. His message lived on, awakening seekers to truth's eternal call.
As Raghav watched, a sea of diyas floated upon the river, igniting its surface in a warm glow. Their golden light reflected upon faces rapt in prayer and song, imparting a radiance as celestial as stars in the gathering dusk. The hollows and lines of age seemed to melt away in this unearthly light, revealing humanity's innate divinity usually hidden by the shadow of ignorance and doubt. All present were laid bare yet fearless, merged within love eternal, triumphant over death. A cool breeze stirred, scenting the air with prayers and blossoms as the first stars emerged shyly in the vastness above. The flames of diyas danced, rippling the water's surface in imitation of the celestial constellations glittering into being at day's end. The river flowed on as a timeless witness to this outpouring of devotion, absorbing prayers and hymns into her bosom to carry to the sea.
Yet her waters also nourished the land, sustaining the people who lived and died along her shores with the promise of renewal as constant as her flow. At this moment, all was peace, differences and worries dissolving within the miracle of light upon the water. Varanasi drew breath, united in shared wonder at the mystery and beauty of existence. What once was lost had now been found in the realisation that all was one, held safe within a love as boundless as the sky.
Shankara's Reflection
(Chapter 4.1)
My abduction caused turmoil in Varanasi, yet amidst confusion, the Bhaja Govindam spread - its wisdom reaching all, inspiring deeper devotion and insight into existence. Disciples found solace in its verses, drawing strength to continue the search, their faith a testament to the Bhaja Govindam's power, transforming lives. Raghav's anger festered as the Bhaja Govindam permeated Varanasi. Hearing of its impact, his fury grew, determined to prove my words empty, exact revenge. Raghav studied the Bhaja Govindam to find weaknesses, scrutinising each verse. Yet drawn to its wisdom and beauty, he could not deny its impact, stirring longing for insight, seeking the divine. Questioning revenge, Raghav glimpsed the truth. Though hope faded, the Bhaja Govindam gave solace, teaching devotion's import in adversity. Captive, I shared wisdom despite threats - unwavering, an example of its teachings embodied. Raghav faced a crossroads - continue revenge or embrace wisdom, seeking a new path. His choice shaped Varanasi's fate and touched all lives therein. As darkness fell the Bhaja Govindam echoed, a reminder of devotion's power and wisdom's transformational potential. My teachings offered hope where uncertainty and sorrow reigned.
The quest for vengeance springs from bitterness within, but insight reveals a deeper truth - the Atman alone is real. Its grace awakens wisdom, dissolving anger into compassion for those still caught in delusion's sway. Dear friend, each moment offers a choice - to live from fear and craving or allow the eternal light to guide each thought and word and deed. The Bhaja Govindam calls to turn within, find your fadeless Self, and see reflected there that Self inhabiting every form, awake or unaware. The path of wisdom leads beyond all opposites to unity, embracing each apparent obstacle as means for cultivating understanding.
Through patience, faith, and reflection, insight emerges, dissolving separation, quieting the mind's restlessness in the bliss of Brahman found. This truth is upheld through each vicissitude - abiding calm and certitude through praise or blame, confronting fears which threaten from without and doubts which linger still within the mind. Secure in wisdom none can undermine, the realised one lives as a shining light - an inspiration and a guide to all who yet struggle in illusion's night. Dear Raghav, the crossroads lie before you now as always - the choice is but a thought, this way or that which shapes each destiny and life.
I offer only verse and vision glimpsing truth - through grace alone, the way is found. The rest remains with you, as with us all - each heart's resolve and faith's integrity determine if wisdom takes root and blossoms into freedom here and now. This freedom is absolute through knowledge of the Self alone - eternal, free of form or attribute, indivisible, serene. The path of compassion leads to this pinnacle of insight - dissolve in bliss and let each thought and word, and deed shine a light for others still seeking the way out of the night. Here rests enlightenment - in the silence of the mind, in wisdom and works upheld by the vision of the Truth. Raghav, dear friend - herein the Bhaja Govindam finds fulfilment, my teaching bears fruition, and Varanasi may rejoice - one more arrives into the light eternal, fed with the oil of grace.
Ethics Reflection
Human Ethics Insights: This block plunges into darker ethical territory. Raghav’s abduction of Shankara is a stark portrayal of violating autonomy and resorting to force to extract perceived "secrets"—a fundamental breach of ethical conduct driven by wounded ego and entitlement. Shankara’s remarkable resilience, however, lies not in physical opposition but in maintaining inner equilibrium (samatvam) and consistently choosing the ethical response: offering wisdom and compassion even to his captor ("urging him to let go of anger and resentment"). His internal steadfastness remains untouched by external coercion. Concurrently, the external impact of the Bhaja Govindam spreading through Varanasi, coupled with Raghav’s internal struggle ("Raghav's anger began to wane; he found himself at a crossroads"), vividly illustrates how ethical truths and wisdom can exert influence subtly. Even amidst unethical actions, the inherent power of truth can create internal dissonance and open pathways for change, demonstrating that ethical principles have a quiet resonance that force cannot easily extinguish.
AI Ethics Parallels: In the realm of AI Ethics, Raghav’s coercion mirrors grave contemporary concerns: the potential for AI systems to be weaponized for manipulation (emotional exploitation, deepfakes), pervasive surveillance infringing on autonomy, biased predictive systems leading to unjust outcomes, or algorithmic decision-making in conflict scenarios driven by potentially skewed data or objectives. The desire to "force" outcomes or extract data unethically finds potent new tools in AI. Shankara’s response embodies the ideal for robust ethical AI systems and governance: maintaining core principles (fairness, non-maleficence, transparency) even when facing pressures (market demands, state interests). The external spread of the Bhaja Govindam suggests the importance of public awareness, open ethical guidelines, and regulatory frameworks for AI, while Raghav's internal conflict points to the need for fostering ethical reflection within AI development teams and companies. Robust auditing mechanisms (like Custos AI) could serve as external checks, while promoting internal ethical cultures can address the roots of potentially harmful applications, mirroring the dual external/internal influence seen in the narrative.
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