Sloka 201
Sloka 201
Original Text:
आनन्दमायाकोशस्य सुषुप्तौ स्फूर्तिरुत्कटा । स्वप्नजागरयोरीषदिष्टसंदर्शनाविना ॥ २0८ ॥
- **Transliteration:**
Ānandamayākośasya suṣuptau sphūrtirutkaṭā. Svapnajāgarayorīṣadiṣṭasaṃdarśanāvinā.
- **Translation:**
The manifestation of the Ānandamaya-kośa during deep sleep is intense. Unlike in the states of dreaming and wakefulness, it exists without even the slightest dual perception or distinction.
- **Word Meanings:**
* Ānandamayākośasya - of the Ānandamaya-kośa (the bliss sheath) * Suṣuptau - in deep sleep * Sphūrtiḥ - manifestation, presence * Utkaṭā - intense, strong * Svapna - of dreaming * Jāgarayoḥ - and wakefulness * Īṣat - slightly * Iṣṭasaṃdarśanā - of dual perception * Avinā - without
- **Commentary:**
In Vedantic philosophy, the human experience is understood through five sheaths (kośas) that veil the true self: the physical (Annamaya), vital (Prāṇamaya), mental (Manomaya), intellectual (Vijñānamaya), and bliss (Ānandamaya). The Ānandamaya-kośa is considered the innermost sheath, closely associated with one's true nature, Ātman, or pure consciousness.
This particular sloka highlights the profound manifestation of the bliss sheath, or Ānandamaya-kośa, during the state of deep sleep (suṣupti). It contrasts with the states of dreaming (svapna) and wakefulness (jāgara), where perception is colored by duality—a duality that fosters a sense of separation between self and other. In deep sleep, however, this sheath prevails strongly without interference or dual perception, providing a glimpse into the undivided bliss that is otherwise overshadowed by the mind’s interaction with the material world.
The significance here is the recognition of the unperturbed nature of bliss in the absence of egoistic diversions and mental activity. In deep sleep, even though there is no conscious awareness, the innate bliss of Ānandamaya-kośa is experienced as restful and rejuvenating, suggesting that our truest peace and joy lie beyond the confines of mind-driven activities.
The sloka encourages spiritual aspirants to understand that true bliss and peace are inherent and can be uncovered by transcending the mental modifications that arise in waking and dreaming states. The insight offered here is not to remain perpetually in deep sleep, but rather to become aware of and eventually identify with the non-dual essence that manifests within Ānandamaya-kośa.
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