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8

CHAPTER 

VERSE

11

यदक्षरं वेदविदो वदन्ति विशन्ति यद्यतयो वीतरागा: |
यदिच्छन्तो ब्रह्मचर्यं चरन्ति तत्ते पदं संग्रहेण प्रवक्ष्ये || 8.11 ||

Yadakṣaraṁ vedavido vadanti viśanti yadyatayo vītarāgāḥ
Yadicchanto brahmacaryaṁ caranti tatte padaṁ saṁgraheṇa pravakṣye ||

What the knowers of the Vedas declare to be the imperishable, the disciplined, self-controlled ascetics enter into; desiring which, they practice brahmacharya; that state I shall succinctly explain to you.

Lesson:

This verse underscores the importance of spiritual discipline, renunciation, and the practice of brahmacharya in the pursuit of liberation. It emphasizes the transformative power of self-control and the renunciation of worldly desires in attaining the highest spiritual realization.

Krishna introduces the concept of the imperishable state, as described by the knowers of the Vedas (vedavido). He indicates that this state is attained by disciplined, self-controlled ascetics (yadyatayo vītarāgāḥ), who renounce worldly attachments and desires in pursuit of spiritual realization. HE mentions that those who practice brahmacharya (celibacy or control over senses) with a desire for this imperishable state eventually attain it. Brahmacharya is a vital aspect of spiritual practice in many Indian traditions, emphasizing the control and sublimation of physical and mental energies towards spiritual growth and enlightenment.

The imperishable state referred to here transcends the cycle of birth and death, representing the eternal, unchanging essence of the self (ātman). It is a state of absolute bliss, peace, and union with the divine, beyond the fluctuations of the material world.

Krishna assures Arjuna that he will succinctly explain this state to him, indicating that it is a profound concept that requires careful contemplation and understanding. By elucidating the imperishable state, Krishna aims to provide Arjuna with spiritual guidance and insight into the ultimate goal of human life. Overall, this verse encourages individuals to cultivate discipline, detachment, and a sincere aspiration for spiritual growth, recognizing that such qualities lead to the attainment of the imperishable state described in the Vedas.

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