Sloka 16
Sloka 16
Original Text:
मेधावी पुरुषो विद्वानुहापोहविचक्षणः । अधिकार्यात्मविद्यायामुक्तलक्षणलक्षितः ॥ १६ ॥
Certainly! Here's the comprehensive breakdown of the given sloka:
- **Transliteration:**
medhāvī puruṣo vidvān uhāpohavicakṣaṇaḥ | adhikāryātmavidyāyām uktalakṣaṇalakṣitaḥ || 16 ||
- **Translation:**
A wise and learned person, skilled in reasoning and the art of debate, is qualified for the knowledge of the Self, characterized by the qualities described.
- **Word Meanings:**
* मेधावी (medhāvī) - wise, possessing intellect * पुरुषः (puruṣaḥ) - person, individual * विद्वान् (vidvān) - learned, knowledgeable * उहापोहविचक्षणः (uhāpohavicakṣaṇaḥ) - skilled in reasoning and debate * अधिकारि (adhikāri) - qualified, entitled * आत्मविद्यायाम् (ātmavidyāyām) - in the knowledge of the Self (Atma-vidya) * उक्त (ukta) - mentioned, described * लक्षण (lakṣaṇa) - characteristics, qualities * लक्षितः (lakṣitaḥ) - characterized by, marked with
- **Commentary:**
This sloka from Vedantic literature emphasizes the qualities necessary for one to be considered an eligible seeker of self-knowledge or Atma-vidya. The journey towards self-realization, according to the Vedantic tradition, is not merely an academic or intellectual pursuit. Instead, it is an experiential quest that demands certain prerequisites or fitness in an individual.
Being 'medhāvī' and 'vidvān' highlights the importance of possessing both intellectual sharpness and a seasoned understanding of scriptures or philosophy. 'Uhāpohavicakṣaṇaḥ' further refines these qualities by stressing the need for analytical capability. Reasoning is vital in spiritual discourse as it aids in discriminating between the real (eternal, the Self) and the unreal (temporary, the non-Self).
Such an individual is deemed an 'adhikāri,' or one who is fit for acquiring Atma-vidya, the highest knowledge. The underlying premise is that while all beings have access to spiritual pursuits, those who exhibit these qualities possess a refined mind capable of grasping subtle truths, persevering through doubts, and applying teachings in life. The 'uktalakṣaṇalakṣitaḥ' stresses adherence to prescribed qualities, serving as a guideline for seekers to assess and refine their eligibility for deep spiritual inquiry.
In essence, this sloka elaborates on the importance of discerning qualities that prepare the aspirant for the transformative journey of self-discovery, aligning inner capabilities with the teachings imparted by the spiritual traditions and discourses of the wise.
Further Readings: