Sloka 32
Sloka 32
Original Text:
स्वात्मतत्त्वानुसन्धानं भक्तिरित्यपरे जगुः । उक्तसाधनसंपन्नस्तत्त्वजिज्ञासुरात्मनः उपसीदेद्गुरुं प्राज्ञ्यं यस्माद्बन्धविमोक्षणम् ॥ ३२ ॥
Certainly! Here's an analysis of the given sloka:
- **Transliteration:**
svātma-tattvānusandhānaṁ bhaktirityapare jaguḥ। uktasādhanasaṁpannastattvajijñāsurātmanaḥ upasīdedguruṁ prājñaṁ yasmādbandhavimokṣaṇam ॥ 32 ॥
- **Translation:**
Some say that the inquiry into the true nature of the Self is devotion. One who is equipped with the prescribed means, desirous of knowing the truth of the Self, should approach a wise guru, for that leads to liberation from bondage.
- **Word Meanings:**
* svātma-tattva-anusandhānam - inquiry into the true nature of the Self * bhaktiḥ - devotion * iti - thus * apare - others * jaguḥ - say * ukta-sādhana-saṁpannaḥ - one endowed with the prescribed means * tattvajijñāsuḥ - desirous of knowing the truth * ātmanaḥ - of the Self * upasīdet - should approach * gurum - guru, spiritual teacher * prājñaṁ - wise * yasmāt - because * bandha-vimokṣaṇam - liberation from bondage
- **Commentary:**
This sloka draws a profound connection between knowledge and devotion, asserting that true devotion can manifest as a deep inquiry into the nature of the Self. It presents an approach to spiritual practice where the intellect and devotion converge, suggesting that the ultimate purpose of both is the realization of one's true nature.
The text underscores the importance of a guru in the spiritual journey. A genuine seeker, who has equipped themselves with the disciplines and practices prescribed for spiritual growth, should seek the guidance of a wise and knowledgeable teacher. This is because the guidance of a guru can illuminate the path to self-realization and liberation.
The sloka implies that spiritual liberation involves breaking free from the ties of ignorance and material bonds, which can be effectively achieved under the tutelage of a qualified guru. Such guidance is invaluable for aligning one's inquiries with spiritual truths and ensuring that the pursuit of knowledge does not veer off into mere intellectual exercise but remains a heart-centered quest for liberation.
Further Readings: