Sloka 104
Sloka 104
Original Text:
आत्मार्थत्वेन हि प्रेयान्विषयो न स्वतः प्रियः । स्वत एव हि सर्वेषामात्मा प्रियतमो यतः तत आत्मा सदानन्दो नास्य दुःखं कदाचन ॥ १0६ ॥
Certainly! Let's delve into the given sloka.
- **Transliteration:**
Ātmārthatvena hi preyānviṣayo na svataḥ priyaḥ। Svata eva hi sarveṣāmātmā priyatamo yataḥ Tata ātmā sadānando nāsya duḥkhaṃ kadācana॥ 106॥
- **Translation:**
Indeed, objects of desire are dear for the sake of the Self, not for their own sake. For the Self alone is most dear to all. Therefore, the Self is ever-blissful and never experiences sorrow at any time.
- **Word Meanings:**
* आत्मार्थत्वेन (ātmārthatvena) - for the sake of the Self * हि (hi) - indeed * प्रेयान् (preyān) - dear * विषयः (viṣayaḥ) - objects of desire * न (na) - not * स्वतः (svataḥ) - by themselves * प्रियः (priyaḥ) - dear * स्वतः एव (svata eva) - by itself alone * सर्वेषाम् (sarveṣām) - for all * आत्मा (ātmā) - the Self * प्रियतमः (priyatamaḥ) - most dear * यतः (yataḥ) - because * तत (tata) - therefore * आत्मा (ātmā) - the Self * सदानन्दः (sadānandaḥ) - ever-blissful * न (na) - not * अस्य (asya) - his/its * दुःखम् (duḥkham) - sorrow/pain * कदाचन (kadācana) - at any time
- **Commentary:**
This verse beautifully articulates a core philosophical insight found in Vedanta: the intrinsic nature of the Self (ātman) as the ultimate source of all value and the most beloved entity. It asserts that all external objects, which are conventionally perceived as sources of pleasure or contentment, are actually dear because of their connection to the Self. This reflects the idea that human affection toward worldly objects and experiences is essentially an indirect quest for the joy inherent in one's own true nature.
The statement that the Self is "ever-blissful" and never experiences sorrow underscores a fundamental Vedantic teaching—that the true Self is beyond the dualities of pleasure and pain. The transient nature of worldly pleasures contrasts with the eternal, unchanging bliss of the Self. This non-dualistic view posits that identifying with objects or temporary states leads to suffering, while realization of one's true Self leads to liberation (moksha) and enduring happiness.
In practice, this understanding encourages a shift in focus from external attachments to a deeper introspection and inner awakening, recognizing that true fulfillment is already present within the essence of one's being. This sloka affirms that in the realization of the Self, all desires are transcended, leading to the ultimate peace and joy.
Further Readings: