Page 298 - Basic Writings of Sriramchandra

Basic Writings of Sri Ramchandra
desires and enjoyments still lies buried deep within the heart and may sprout forth immediately when it finds a congenial atmosphere. The feeling of Vairagya in the real sense and with the lasting results can only be developed after thorough cleaning and due moderation.
Vedantins practice Vairagya in a different way. They force their imagination to believe that everything they see is Maya, hence transitory or false and conclude that reality at the bottom is Brahma. They apply their power of will to strengthen the thought so much so that they get habituated to it, causing modification in outward actions and habits only. Hence the effect is mostly merely external. It may, however, after long and continued practice possibly reflect somewhat inward. Similarly Viveka actuated by mere forcing of imagination without a touch of practicality has no sound basis. A close study of the subject will show that really Viveka and Vairagya are not the means (Sadhana) but only the result of some means (Sadhana). Viveka orVairagya is a state of mind developed at different stages by constant practice of certain Yogic Sadhanas, e.g. remembrance, devotion or love, etc. Viveka in true sense never develops unless the senses are thoroughly purified. This happens only when mind gets properly regulated and disciplined and egoism (or Ahankar) assumes a purified state. Thusitis,thatVivekaisinfacttheresultofpractices followed in order to bring about the desired results. Now Vairagya, the second Sadhana of the Vedantists is likewise the result of Viveka. They are thus the stages of elementary
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