Sloka 23
Sloka 23
Original Text:
विषयेभ्यः परावर्त्य स्थापनं स्वस्वगोलके । उभयेषामिन्द्रियाणां स दमः परिकीर्तितः बाह्यानालम्बनं वृत्तेरेषोपरतिरुत्तमा ॥ २३ ॥
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- **Transliteration:**
``` viṣayebhyaḥ parāvartya sthāpanaṃ svasvagolake | ubhayeṣāmindriyāṇāṃ sa damaḥ parikīrtitaḥ bāhyānālambanaṃ vṛtter eṣoparatiruttamā || 23 || ```
- **Translation:**
``` Turning away from the objects and establishing the senses in their own realms is known as 'dama' (self-restraint). The non-dependence of the mind on external objects is termed the supreme 'uparati' (withdrawal). ```
- **Word Meanings:**
* **viṣayebhyaḥ** - from the objects * **parāvartya** - turning away * **sthāpanaṃ** - establishment * **svasvagolake** - in their respective spheres * **ubhayeṣām** - of both * **indriyāṇām** - of the senses * **saḥ** - that * **damaḥ** - self-restraint * **parikīrtitaḥ** - is known as * **bāhyānālambanaṃ** - non-dependence on external (supports) * **vṛtteḥ** - of the mind * **eṣaḥ** - this * **uparatiḥ** - withdrawal * **uttamā** - supreme
- **Commentary:**
In Vedantic philosophy, the control and regulation of the senses and the mind are essential steps in spiritual practice. This sloka emphasizes the significance of *dama* and *uparati*, two important aspects of self-discipline and detachment. *Dama* involves consciously withdrawing the senses from external objects, focusing them within their natural domains. This practice is crucial in maintaining inner peace and concentration, considering that unchecked senses can lead to distraction and attachment to ephemeral pleasures.
*Uparati*, on the other hand, is highlighted here as the supreme form of withdrawal. It signifies a deeper state where the mind no longer depends on external stimuli for its functioning or satisfaction. Unlike merely controlling the senses, *uparati* reflects an internalized detachment where the mind finds contentment within itself, independent of the external world.
These practices are part of the broader discipline of *sādhanā catuṣṭaya*, the fourfold practice comprising discrimination (viveka), dispassion (vairāgya), the six virtues (ṣaṭkasampatti, including dama and uparati), and the intense longing for liberation (mumukṣutva). They prepare the seeker for higher meditative states and eventually lead to self-realization.
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