Sloka 25
Sloka 25
Original Text:
शास्त्रस्य गुरुवाक्यस्य सत्यबुद्ध्यवधारणम् । सा श्रद्धा कथिता सद्भिर्यया वस्तूपलभ्यते ॥ २५ ॥
- Transliteration:
śāstrasya guruvākyasya satyabuddhyavadhāraṇam | sā śraddhā kathitā sadbhiryayā vastūpalabhyate || 25 ||
- Translation:
"Firm conviction in the truth of the scriptures and the words of the teacher is called 'Śraddhā' (faith) by the wise, through which reality is realized."
- Word Meanings:
* śāstrasya - of the scriptures * guruvākyasya - of the teacher's words * satya - truth * buddhi - intellect or understanding * avadhāraṇam - firm determination or conviction * sā - that * śraddhā - faith * kathitā - is described * sadbhiḥ - by the wise * yayā - by which * vastu - reality or truth * upalabhyate - is realized
- Commentary:
This verse underscores the pivotal role of Śraddhā (faith) in the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. It highlights that genuine faith is not mere belief but a firm conviction in the veracity of sacred texts and the teachings of a spiritual preceptor. This conviction is not blind; it comes from an understanding and intelligent reflection upon the teachings, making it a form of mature faith akin to a guiding light on the spiritual path.
Śraddhā is deemed indispensable by the wise (sadbhīḥ), as it serves as the foundation upon which one explores and eventually realizes the ultimate reality (vastu). In Vedantic tradition, the power of Śraddhā lies in its ability to transform theoretical understanding into direct experiential knowledge of the self and the Supreme.
The scripture and the guru are considered authorities not just for their content, but for their experiential wisdom, making their words a crucial guide for seekers. Such faith sets the stage for deeper meditative and intellectual engagement, ensuring that one's journey towards self-realization is anchored in authenticity and depth.
Ultimately, Śraddhā, as encapsulated in this verse, is not merely a static state of belief but a dynamic process that moves the seeker closer to the realization of the ultimate truth of existence.
Further Readings: