Sloka 11
Sloka 11
Original Text:
चित्तस्य शुद्धये कर्म न तु वस्तूपलब्धये । वस्तुसिद्धिर्विचारेण न किंचित्कर्मकोटिभिः ॥ ११ ॥
Certainly! Here is an analysis of the provided sloka:
- **Transliteration:**
chittasya śuddhaye karma na tu vastūpalabdhaye | vastusiddhirvicāreṇa na kiṃcitkarmakoṭibhiḥ || 11 ||
- **Translation:**
Actions are for the purification of the mind, not for the realization of the ultimate reality. The realization of reality is obtained through inquiry, not by performing millions of actions.
- **Word Meanings:**
* chittasya - of the mind * śuddhaye - for purification * karma - actions * na - not * tu - but * vastu - reality, ultimate truth * upalabdhaye - for realization * vastusiddhiḥ - realization of reality * vicāreṇa - through inquiry, contemplation * na - not * kiṃcit - any * karmakoṭibhiḥ - by millions of actions
- **Commentary:**
This sloka emphasizes a fundamental principle in Vedantic philosophy concerning the role and purpose of actions (karma) in the spiritual journey. According to Advaita Vedanta, as presented in texts like Vivekachudamani or attributed to figures such as Adi Shankaracharya, the primary goal of performing actions is to purify the mind (chitta-shuddhi). A mind purified through righteous actions is better equipped for self-inquiry and contemplation (vicāra), which are crucial processes for attaining self-realization or understanding the true nature of reality (vastu).
The sloka asserts that merely performing countless actions, regardless of their scale or intention, cannot directly lead to the ultimate realization or consciousness of one’s true self (Atman) or the absolute reality (Brahman). This insight underscores a critical distinction: while actions help in creating a conducive internal environment, true knowledge and liberation come from insight and understanding gained through deep inquiry and meditation.
The sloka advises spiritual seekers to not become entangled in the performative aspect of spiritual practices without understanding their ultimate aim. It is a call to engage deeply with philosophy, inquiry, and experiential understanding, moving beyond ritualistic actions alone.
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