Delving Deeper in "Shankara's Bhaja Govindam": The Confined Guru (Part 3 of 4)
Shadows and inquiry: Probing deep truths & ethical foundations in captivity
Greetings, fellow explorers, and welcome back!
We continue our narrative and ethical immersion with the serialised philosophical fiction novelette, "Shankara's Bhaja Govindam: Chronicle of an Abduction in Varanasi."
If you're just joining this journey or wish to revisit the earlier chapters, you can explore the foundational Part 1 here and the deepening entanglement in Part 2 here.
In Part 2, we witnessed the abduction of Shankara and the complex dynamic between captive and captor, as Shankara patiently offered wisdom while Raghav wrestled with internal conflict amidst external turmoil.
In this pivotal Part 3, the dialogue intensifies. Confined within the cellar, Shankara moves beyond basic tenets to impart the deepest teachings of Advaita Vedanta – the nature of the true Self (Atman), the path of negation (Neti, Neti), and the illusion of clinging to the impermanent body or ego. We witness Raghav's profound struggle to grasp these truths and the ultimate revelation that redefines his entire quest, shifting focus from worldly immortality to inner liberation and forcing an ethical re-evaluation.
Join us for these critical chapters (5 & 6) and the subsequent "Ethics Reflection" linking ancient wisdom to modern challenges, including AI.
The journey inward continues...
Chapter 5: The Struggle for Understanding
Adi Shankara stirred in the fetid darkness of the cellar, awakening from his meditative dream. He had envisioned himself teaching Raghav by the serene lake, explaining the wisdom of the Bhaja Govindam using the metaphor of old age and the decay of the body to signify an attachment to the impermanent. But as he opened his eyes, the dank walls of his prison came into focus. The dream faded, and he found himself once again confined by his captor, Raghav.
Raghav had come to Adi Shankara seeking immortality but refused to accept the truth - that spiritual enlightenment, not the preservation of the body, was the only way to transcend death. His stubborn attachment to illusion and fear of the inevitable had led him to subject Adi Shankara to imprisonment and deprivation.
And yet, Adi Shankara did not feel anger towards his tormentor. He understood Raghav was acting out of ignorance and insecurity, just as all beings suffer due to ignorance of their true self. His duty was to enlighten, to patiently guide Raghav to the wisdom he sought all along.
The signs of age in the Bhaja Govindam were a reminder to Adi Shankara as well. His own body may be imprisoned, but his essence remains free. Through detachment from the material and absorption in the infinite Atman, one attains liberation from all suffering. He had to continue sharing this knowledge with Raghav, as gradually as required for the seed of truth to take root and grow.
As rays of sun slipped through cracks in the wall, illuminating the darkness for a moment, Adi Shankara closed his eyes once more. His vision returned to the dream, sitting by the lake, explaining to Raghav that which is unbound and eternal. The dream gave him a renewed conviction in his purpose. With infinite patience, he would continue to guide his captor to freedom from fear and ignorance, no matter the obstacles. For the guru's duty is to awaken - even those who are asleep do not yet know their dream.
Adi Shankara awoke with a start to find himself once again in the damp, fetid cellar. The vivid dream faded, its memory alone providing solace. He opened his eyes to darkness, taking a few deep breaths to centre himself and recall his purpose. Despite the grim conditions of his imprisonment, Adi Shankara's expression remained serene and composed. He knew his captor, Raghav, was acting out of fear and ignorance - emotions that had led him to violently reject wisdom in favour of clinging stubbornly to illusion. But reacting with anger or judgment would only increase Raghav's suffering and cloud the truth further.
Adi Shankara's duty was to patiently enlighten, through compassion and skilful means. He had to continue coaxing Raghav from the depths of darkness, however gradually the light may seep in. When Raghav arrived with his daily ration of food and water, he was surprised to find Adi Shankara meditating peacefully in the corner of the cellar, a faint smile on his lips. Raghav felt a flicker of annoyance at his captive's serenity in the face of deprivation.
"Why do you remain calm when you are imprisoned and alone? Do you not fear what may become of you?" Raghav asked harshly.
Adi Shankara opened his eyes, regaining awareness of his physical surroundings. "I do not see this as imprisonment, but rather as an opportunity to guide you to freedom from suffering." His tone was gentle but firm. "The path to enlightenment is through understanding one's true nature - not chasing immortality or preserving the body, which is fleeting."
Raghav scowled at this response, anger and confusion warring within him. He refused to listen to teachings that contradicted his deepest desires. And yet some part of him yearned for the peace that Adi Shankara so clearly possessed.
With infinite patience, born of wisdom, compassion, and commitment to awakening all beings from the slumber of ignorance, Adi Shankara continued to seed Raghav's mind with spiritual knowledge - a little at a time, as much as he could bear. Each lesson is a step closer to the realisation of the eternal Atman, infinite and free.
Though confined to a dark cellar, trapped in a frail body, at the mercy of one steeped in violence and illusion, Adi Shankara did not waver in his purpose. His duty was to enlighten. And so he continued guiding Raghav through the intricate world of Vedanta, emphasising over and over that the secret to immortality lay not outside in ritual or material gain, but within, through a journey of self-discovery and understanding of one's true divine nature.
"The Bhaja Govindam," Adi Shankara explained, "is not a magical incantation that grants eternal life. It is a call to seek the divine within oneself and to embrace the wisdom of the universe. It is a reminder that the pursuit of material wealth and worldly pleasures is ultimately futile, as they are transient and impermanent."
Raghav, however, remained unconvinced. His desire for immortality clouded his judgment, and he stubbornly clung to the belief that there must be a hidden secret within the teachings of Vedanta. He challenged Adi Shankara, demanding to know the secret that would grant him eternal life.
Shankaracharya recognised the importance of understanding his target audience.
He knew that Raghav's stubbornness was rooted in fear and insecurity and that he needed to address these underlying emotions to help Raghav truly grasp the essence of Vedanta.
Drawing upon his creativity and innovation, Shankaracharya devised a series of thought-provoking questions and exercises designed to help Raghav confront his fears and gain a deeper understanding of the true nature of existence. He encouraged Raghav to reflect on the impermanence of life and the inevitability of change and to consider the implications of these truths for his quest for immortality.
As they delved deeper into the teachings of Vedanta, Shankaracharya carefully monitored Raghav's progress, using data-driven decision-making to assess the effectiveness of his approach. He observed subtle shifts in Raghav's attitude and understanding and adjusted his strategy accordingly to ensure that Raghav remained engaged and receptive to the lessons.
Throughout their discussions, Adi Shankara maintained a strong focus on collaboration and communication. He encouraged the man to share his thoughts and feelings openly, and he listened attentively to Raghav's concerns and questions. He fostered an environment of mutual respect and trust, which allowed Raghav to gradually let go of his defences and become more receptive to the wisdom of Vedanta.
Shankaracharya's meticulous attention to detail was evident in the way he carefully crafted each lesson and exercise, ensuring that they were tailored to Raghav's unique needs and interests. He was thorough and precise in his explanations, leaving no stone unturned in his quest to help the man gain a deeper understanding of the principles of Vedanta.
Throughout their journey together, Adi Shankara remained steadfast in his commitment to upholding the values and teachings of Vedanta. He ensured that his approach was consistent with the principles of non-duality and self-realisation, and he continually reinforced the importance of spiritual growth and self-discovery.
As Raghav's understanding of Vedanta began to deepen, Shankaracharya recognised the need to adapt his approach to addressing the evolving needs of his student. He introduced more advanced concepts and practices, guiding his kidnapper through the process of self-inquiry and encouraging him to explore the nature of his consciousness.
Slowly but surely, Raghav's stubbornness began to dissolve, and he started to grasp the true meaning of the Bhaja Govindam and the teachings of Vedanta. He came to understand that the pursuit of immortality was a futile endeavour and that the true path to enlightenment lay in the cultivation of wisdom, compassion, and self-awareness.
As Raghav's journey of self-discovery unfolded, Shankaracharya's unwavering patience and wisdom served as a guiding light, illuminating the path to understanding and helping the man to overcome the obstacles that had once seemed insurmountable. And in the end, it was not a secret formula or magical incantation that led Raghav to enlightenment, but rather the transformative power of knowledge, self-reflection, and spiritual growth.
Shankara's Reflection
(Chapter 5.1)
My friend, your desire for eternal life springs from fear of mortality and craving for permanence in a world where all must change. But immortality of form is an illusion - there is only the eternal, infinite Self, one without a second, which pervades all forms as they arise and pass away within. The Bhaja Govindam calls not to ritual magic but to reflection on this truth, turning awareness inward to find the fadeless, deathless Self-Atman, one with Brahman, the sole reality. Material life and pleasure are but fleeting mirages in the desert sands of time - the oasis lies within. Your stubborn clinging prevents insight-defences, shielding eg,o, and preconceptions must dissolve to grasp Vedanta's essence. Through trust and openness, we forge the path to wisdom. My questions and reflections aim to turn awareness inward, confronting fear and delusion, and obscuring your self. Consider impermanence and the inevitability of change - letting go of attachments opens the way for insight.
Deeper into Vedanta's teachings, I carefully guide each step, adjusting the approach based on subtle shifts in understanding gleaned. An approach both compassionate and meticulous, moulded to your needs, leaving nothing out which may reveal Vedanta's principles. Communication and collaboration are our foundations - share openly your thoughts, concerns and questions without reserve. An environment of respect allows defences to fall away, making you receptive to truth. Lessons tailored to your interests help wisdom take root and grow. Carefully crafted, my explanations are thorough and precise, aimed solely at illuminating your path to Self-discovery. My commitment remains to uphold Vedanta's teachings - its values embodied, approach consistent with enlightenment's path - continually reinforcing spiritual growth's primacy. As insight deepens, concepts and practices advance - you inquire into your nature, exploring consciousness once taken as your own.
Gradually, stubbornness gives way, Bhaja Govindam and Vedanta taking meaning - the futile quest for immortality dissolves as enlightenment's path emerges: wisdom, compassion and awareness.
Through life's journey, my patience and guidance remain - a steady light unveiling obstacles as opportunities and opening the way. Not magic but knowledge, and reflection on true Self transform, dissolving ego into the bliss of enlightenment. The Atman alone is real. Its grace reveals the folly of mortality's fears and turns awareness to eternal life abiding here and now, within. My friend, herein lies freedom - through wisdom glimpse your fadeless Self.
Chapter 6 - The Revelation and Redemption
Adi Shankara's voice cut through the darkness, calm yet insistent. "The Atman, the true Self, cannot be described through words or qualities. It is beyond the intellect, beyond thought and concept."
Raghav frowned. "Then how am I to understand it, if it cannot be grasped by the mind?"
The sage gave a patient smile. "You understand through negation - 'Neti, Neti' - not this, not this. Peel away all that is impermanent until only the eternal Atman remains."
Shankaracharya began to recite his poem, the Atma Shatakam:
"I am not mind, wisdom, pride, deception, the senses
or anything that constitutes the body.
I am not prana, not the five vital breaths of air.
I am not the seven elements of Nature.
I am not any of these,
whether coarse or fine, nor am I their functions.
I am the Self, the eternal consciousness."
Raghav listened as Shankaracharya continued to describe the nature of Atman through negation - it was free of all limits, unchanging, infinite, not bound by time or space. But try as he might to understand, the man found his mind rebelling, conjuring more doubts and questions.
The night wore on as Shankaracharya continued his teachings with infinite patience. He described Brahman as the nondual reality, the foundation of all existence, absolute truth and pure consciousness. Atman and Brahman were the same - the true Self underlying all.
Raghav rubbed his eyes, fatigued yet filled with a yearning to grasp the subtle wisdom Adi Shankara described. But each time he reached for it, his grasp came up empty. His mind was not yet ready.
As the first pink rays of dawn illuminated the sky, Shankaracharya concluded his discourse. "The Atman cannot be found through extensive study of scripture alone. It is by renouncing desires born of ignorance, through spiritual practice and meditation, that one attains Self-knowledge."
"The Atman awaits discovery within. Keep meditating upon the eternal Self through the negation of the non-Self. Gradually, the light of knowledge will dawn."
With these parting words, Shankaracharya sent the man forth to contemplate the deepest teachings of Vedanta - to peel away illusions through persistent self-inquiry and find the truth that dwells within. The Atman was there all along, waiting to be unveiled. Neti, neti - not this, not that. Tat tvam asi - That thou art.
Raghav went out of the cellar to fetch food for the great sage. Upon his return, his heart was pounding with anticipation. He expected to find Adi Shankara waiting for him, ready to impart the new teachings he sought. Instead, he was greeted by a luminescent and evanescent entity where the great sage once stood. Raghav wondered if this was Shankara's Atman, or if the sage had reached Samadhi.
On a piece of paper, Shankaracharya had left a message for Raghav:
"Annihilate your ego and merge with Brahman, the pure consciousness. This is the true meaning, not immortality."
Raghav was taken aback by these words. He had believed that Adi Shankara would help him achieve immortality, but now it seemed the sage was telling him that immortality was not the true meaning of life. Overwhelmed with emotion, Raghav began to cry.
He realised the mistakes he had made in his pursuit of immortality. In his obsession, he had lost sight of the true meaning of life: love, compassion, and service to others.
Raghav humbly asked for forgiveness from Shankaracharya and vowed to change his ways. He promised to let go of his obsession with immortality and instead focus on living a life filled with love, compassion, and service to others.
As the man left the cellar, he felt transformed. No longer consumed by the desire for immortality, he was now dedicated to living a meaningful and fulfilling life. He carried with him the words of Shankaracharya and the wisdom of the Bhaja Govindam, which would guide him on his new path.
Raghav took one last look at the cellar before departing. The evanescent entity had vanished, leaving the space empty and silent. Yet Raghav knew that he would never forget the profound experience he had had there. He had been touched by the presence of Adi Shankara and had gained a new understanding of the true meaning of life.
Stepping out into the sunlight, Raghav felt like a new man. He was eager to embark on his new life, one that was rich with love, compassion, and service to others. He had let go of his obsession with immortality, understanding now that the true meaning of life was found in the present moment, in the act of living a life that was meaningful and fulfilling.
As the man walked away from the cellar, he reflected on the lessons he had learned. He realised that the pursuit of immortality had blinded him to the beauty and richness of life. Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, he was determined to make the most of each day, cherishing the connections he had with others and striving to make a positive impact on the world around him.
Raghav's journey had taught him that true wisdom lies not in the pursuit of immortality but in the understanding and acceptance of our impermanence. By embracing the transient nature of life, we can learn to appreciate the present moment and live our lives with greater purpose and meaning.
As Raghav moved forward, he was committed to living a life that embodied the teachings of Adi Shankara and the wisdom of the Bhaja Govindam. He knew that by focusing on love, compassion, and service to others, he would find the true meaning of life and experience a sense of fulfilment that transcended the fleeting nature of our existence.
In this newfound understanding, Raghav found redemption. He had been given a second chance to live a life that was true to his heart and aligned with the wisdom of the ages. And as he walked away from the cellar, he carried with him the knowledge that he had been forever changed by the revelation he had received.
Shankara’s Reflection
(Chapter 6.1)
Gone. Left body. Purpose served. Message given. Meaning revealed.
Obsession vanished. Truth imparted. Immortality illusion. Life is temporary. Love eternal.
Disciple came. Lesson taught. Understanding dawned. Wisdom arose.
Questions remained. Doubts dissolved. Knowledge bestowed. Enlightenment glimpse.
Journey begins. Destination clear. Path shown. Guidance given.
Darkness dispelled. The light within was revealed. Shadows banished. Atman seen.
The mortal coil transcended. Limitless being realised. The transient gave way. Timeless arose.
The cave is empty now. Presence departed. Purpose fulfilled. Mission accomplished.
Disciple transformed. Seeker changed. New vision gained. True meaning found.
Life anew starts now. Values reborn. Priorities shift. Compassion awakens.
The disciple knows the way. Wisdom guides his steps. Truth resides within.
My work is done. His journey begins. Teachings imparted. Revelations granted.
In silence I abide. In peace I remain. In Atman I rest. In Brahman I dwell.
Ethics Reflection
Human Ethics Insights: This narrative segment transitions into profound ethical pedagogy. Shankara, embodying the compassionate guru, doesn't just correct Raghav's actions but addresses the root cause: the deep-seated fear of death and attachment to the ego, driving the misguided quest for physical immortality. Introducing the Neti, Neti ("not this, not this") method is a powerful ethical act of facilitating self-inquiry (vichara), guiding Raghav to dismantle his own illusions rather than simply imposing dogma. The core ethical shift occurs when Raghav confronts Shankara’s ultimate message – "Annihilate your ego... This is the true meaning, not immortality." This represents the ethical necessity of examining and potentially redefining our fundamental goals and values, moving beyond selfish, fear-based desires towards aspirations grounded in deeper truth, service, and self-understanding. Shankara’s patience and tailoring of the message exemplify the ethical responsibility involved in guidance and mentorship.
AI Ethics Parallels: The Neti, Neti principle finds echoes in critical approaches to AI. We must constantly ask: What are the limitations of this AI? What assumptions does it make? What aspects of reality or human experience does it not capture? This critical negation helps avoid techno-solutionism and blind faith in algorithms. Confronting the theme of impermanence challenges the often-implicit Silicon Valley narrative of transcending human limits through technology (digital immortality, superintelligence). Ethically, it grounds AI development in realistic human contexts and values. Most critically, Raghav's forced re-evaluation of his life's purpose mirrors the urgent need for AI Value Alignment. Are the objective functions we program into AI truly aligned with beneficial long-term human goals, or are they narrow, potentially harmful metrics (like Raghav's pursuit of immortality)? Optimising for user engagement, short-term profit, or predictive efficiency without considering broader ethical consequences is akin to Raghav's initial error. Shankara’s redirection towards "merging with Brahman" suggests that truly ethical AI might require defining its ultimate purpose not in terms of optimising narrow functions, but perhaps in contributing to collective knowledge, understanding complex systems ethically, or fostering collaboration towards shared well-being – a fundamental redefinition of AI "success".
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