You are not this Body Astavakra: Wisdom Beyond Physical Limitations

Astavakra, a revered sage in Eastern/Sanatan philosophy, transcended physical deformity to impart profound teachings on spirituality and self-realization. His journey and insights continue to inspire seekers of wisdom and truth.

The Life and Teachings of Astavakra: Astavakra's physical deformity arose from his birth—born with eight bends in his body, hence the name "Ashtavakra," meaning "eight bends." Despite his physical condition, Astavakra's intellect and spiritual prowess were unmatched. He embarked on a journey of self-realization, seeking wisdom that transcended the limitations of the body.

Dialogue on spiritual matters (Sastartha)  with King Janaka and Gurus: Astavakra engaged in deep philosophical discussions, notably with King Janaka, a wise ruler known for his spiritual inquiry. These dialogues, captured in the "Ashtavakra Gita," delve into fundamental truths about existence, consciousness, and the path to liberation. Through these discussions, Astavakra elucidated profound insights that challenged conventional understanding and guided spiritual seekers towards self-realization.

The Message of Ashtavakra Gita: The "Ashtavakra Gita" is a spiritual scripture consisting of profound verses delivered by Astavakra to King Janaka. Its core message revolves around:

- Non-Identification with the Body: Recognizing oneself as distinct from the physical form and understanding that true essence transcends bodily limitations. Challenge yourself: You claim ownership of your hand, your eye, your leg—every part and entirety of your physical body. Yet, these are possessions, not your essence. So, who truly are you? Our current scientific understanding primarily focuses on investigating the physical body, but it cannot examine the soul (eternal and immortal), the mind (the faculty of consciousness and thought), the subtle body (the inner, non-physical aspects of a person beyond the physical form), and the causal body (the deepest layer of the subtle body, linked to the fundamental causes of individual existence and karma, shaping one's spiritual journey). So practice every day saying: I am not this body, I am not this mind, I am a pure sprit.

- Freedom from Mental Constructs: Liberation from the dualities of the mind and ego, emphasizing inner peace and equanimity.

- Direct Perception of Reality: Seeing reality as it is, beyond the veil of conceptual understanding and conditioned beliefs.

- Spiritual Awakening: Encouraging seekers to realize their true nature as pure consciousness, free from attachments and worldly desires.

It has total 20 chapters. In chapter 1st verse 1st King Janak asked,

कथं ज्ञानमवाप्नोति कथं मुक्तिर्भविष्यति।

वैराग्यं च कथं प्राप्तं एतद् ब्रूहि भगवन् प्रबो॥ १-१॥

Translation: How does one attain knowledge? How does liberation happen? How does one attain dispassion?

Then Ashtavakra replied:

भवतु इच्छतस्य चित्ते वासनामात्रं त्यजेत्।

शोकादिवशमात्तो ऽशुभं दाम्यतोऽसत्यं प्रवद ब्रूहि॥ १-२॥

Translation: If you are seeking liberation, my son, shun the objects of the senses like poison. Practice tolerance, sincerity, compassion, contentment and truthfulness like nectar.

This verse advises one who is on the path to liberation (moksha) to avoid becoming attached to sensory experiences, which are transient and can lead to suffering (like poison). Instead, one should cultivate virtues such as tolerance, sincerity, compassion, contentment, and truthfulness, which are likened to nectar—beneficial and nurturing to spiritual growth and realization.

Embracing Astavakra's Teachings Today: Astavakra's teachings resonate profoundly in the modern world, offering guidance amidst the complexities of life. His emphasis on inner strength, fearlessness, and spiritual inquiry inspires individuals to seek deeper truths and discover their inherent potential beyond physical and mental constraints.

Conclusion: Astavakra's life and teachings remind us that true wisdom and spiritual fulfillment lie not in external appearances but in the depths of self-awareness and realization. By embracing his timeless teachings, we embark on a journey towards inner peace, wisdom, and ultimate liberation.

Dr. Dirgha Raj Joshi is a postdoctoral researcher at the NIH, specializing in antiviral drug discovery as a medicinal chemist. The opinions shared here are solely his own and are not representative of any organizations with which he is affiliated. Published on 10th July 2024.

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