THE SAGE’S EQUANIMITY: INSIGHTS FROM SHRI ASTHAVAKRA

G E E T A 3.9

The verse from Shri Asthavakra Geeta, 3.9, presents a profound

understanding of equanimity and the true nature of the self. The Sanskrit
verse and its transliteration are as follows:

धीरस्तुज्यमानोऽपिपीड्यमानोऽपिसर्वदा।
अत्मानंकवलंपश्यन्नतुष्यतिनकु प्यति ॥
Dheerastu jyaamāno’pi peedya māno’pi sarvadā। Ātmānaṃ kevalaṃ
paśyannatuṣyati na kupyati ॥

This verse translates to: "A wise person, even when praised or persecuted,
always sees only the Self. Therefore, he neither rejoices nor gets angry."

COMMENTARY

This verse captures the essence of a sage’s equanimity, illustrating how an

enlightened individual maintains inner peace and steadiness regardless of
external circumstances. Let's delve into the key components of this verse
to understand its depth and relevance in modern life.

1. DHIRA (THE STEADFAST ONE)

The term "धीर" (dhira) refers to one who is steadfast, wise, and composed.
In the context of the Geeta, a dhira is someone who has attained a deep
understanding of the Self (Atman) and remains unaffected by external
conditions.

2. JYAAMĀNO’PI (PRAISED) AND PEEDYA MĀNO’PI (PERSECUTED)

The verse acknowledges the dual nature of worldly experiences. Whether

one is praised (jyaamāno’pi) or persecuted (peedya māno’pi), these
external validations or criticisms do not disturb the sage's inner peace.
This highlights the transient nature of external accolades and challenges.

3. ĀTMĀNAṂ KEVALAṂ PAŚYAN (SEEING ONLY THE SELF)

The phrase "आत्मानं के वलं पश्यन्" (ātmānaṃ kevalaṃ paśyan) signifies

the sage’s realization of the Self as the only reality. This non-dualistic
vision (Advaita) is central to many Indian philosophies, where the
individual recognizes the true nature of the Self beyond physical and
mental constructs.
4. NA TUṢYATI NA KUPYATI (NEITHER REJOICES NOR GETS ANGRY)

Finally, the verse describes the sage’s equanimity: "न तुष्यति न कु प्यति"
(na tuṣyati na kupyati). The sage does not feel elation in praise nor anger
in criticism. This neutrality is a hallmark of spiritual maturity, indicating
freedom from ego and attachment.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS IN MODERN LIFE

In today's fast-paced and often tumultuous world, the teachings of this

verse hold significant relevance. Here are some practical applications:

1. MINDFULNESS AND SELF-AWARENESS

Practicing mindfulness helps in cultivating self-awareness, allowing one to

observe thoughts and emotions without attachment. This leads to a deeper
understanding of the Self, reducing the impact of external praise or
criticism.

2. EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

Developing emotional intelligence involves recognizing and managing

one's emotions and understanding the emotions of others. This can lead to
better handling of situations where one might feel overly praised or
harshly criticized.

3. INNER PEACE

Fostering a sense of inner peace through meditation and contemplation

helps in maintaining equanimity. By recognizing the transient nature of
external circumstances, one can remain centered and composed.

4. DETACHMENT

Practicing detachment does not mean indifference but rather a balanced

approach to life’s highs and lows. This aligns with the principle of seeing
only the Self and not getting swayed by external factors.

The wisdom encapsulated in Shri Asthavakra Geeta 3.9 offers timeless

guidance on achieving equanimity and inner peace. By understanding and
internalizing these teachings, one can navigate the complexities of modern
life with grace and steadiness, ultimately leading to a more fulfilled and
harmonious existence.
 --

The verse you are referring to is from the "Ashtavakra Gita," a classical Advaita Vedanta
scripture that contains a dialogue between the sage Ashtavakra and King Janaka. The verse in
question appears to emphasize the importance of patience and self-realization, highlighting the
difference between the realized self and those who are caught up in worldly matters. Here's a
more accurate translation of verse 3.9:

Ashtavakra Gita 3.9: "Be patient and always be patient. I am the one who is free from all kinds
of evils. You (the subject of the world) are the ones who are the victims (of criticism). You are
the only one who caresses the self. I am not in any trouble."

This verse underscores the difference between the state of the self-realized individual, who is
free from worldly evils and disturbances, and those who are entangled in worldly criticism and
suffering. It emphasizes the tranquility and freedom that comes with self-realization, contrasting
it with the turmoil experienced by those who have not yet attained this state.

--

T HE T RANQUILITY OF S ELF -R EALIZATION : A D EEP

D IVE INTO A SHTAVAKRA G ITA 3.9
INTRODUCTION

The Ashtavakra Gita is a seminal text in the Advaita Vedanta tradition,

featuring a profound dialogue between the sage Ashtavakra and King
Janaka. This scripture delves into the nature of the self, liberation, and the
ultimate reality. Verse 3.9 offers a poignant reflection on the state of self-
realization versus the entanglement in worldly affairs. It advises patience,
contrasts the inner peace of the self-realized with the turmoil of the
unenlightened, and emphasizes the liberation that comes with true
understanding of the self. This essay will explore the basic principles and
the deep philosophical insights encapsulated in this verse.

THE VIRTUE OF PATIENCE

Patience is a central theme in many spiritual traditions, and the Ashtavakra

Gita underscores its importance, particularly in verse 3.9. The exhortation
to "Be patient and always be patient" transcends mere endurance. It calls
for a profound acceptance of the present moment and an understanding
that true wisdom and insight unfold in their own time.

In the context of spiritual practice, patience is not passive waiting but an

active engagement with one’s inner journey. It requires faith in the process
of self-inquiry and trust that the truth will reveal itself to the diligent
seeker. This kind of patience is a testament to the seeker’s commitment to
transcendental realization.
PATIENCE IN SPIRITUAL TRADITIONS

Patience is often depicted as a virtue that fosters spiritual growth. In many

traditions, it is seen as a foundation for other virtues such as humility,
compassion, and wisdom. The Ashtavakra Gita, a seminal text in Advaita
Vedanta, emphasizes patience as essential for attaining self-realization.

The verse 3.9 of the Ashtavakra Gita states, "A wise person, even when
praised or persecuted, always sees only the Self. Therefore, he neither
rejoices nor gets angry." This suggests that patience is not only about
enduring difficult circumstances but maintaining equanimity and
steadfastness regardless of external conditions.

ACTIVE ENGAGEMENT WITH INNER JOURNEY

Patience in spiritual practice involves active engagement with the self. It is

not about passively waiting for enlightenment but about diligently
working towards it with perseverance and dedication. This means
continuously practicing self-inquiry, meditation, and mindfulness.

Self-inquiry, a method often highlighted in Advaita Vedanta, involves

questioning the nature of the self and seeking the ultimate reality. This
process requires immense patience, as the answers do not come
immediately. The seeker must persistently and patiently peel away layers
of ignorance to uncover the true self.

FAITH IN THE PROCESS

Patience also involves having faith in the spiritual process. The journey to
self-realization is often fraught with challenges and obstacles. It is easy to
become disheartened or frustrated when progress seems slow or non-
existent. However, patience is about trusting the process and believing that
every step, no matter how small, brings one closer to the ultimate goal.

Faith in the process means recognizing that spiritual growth is not linear.
There will be times of rapid progress and times of stagnation. Patience
helps the seeker to remain committed during the slow periods,
understanding that they are also part of the journey.

TRUST IN THE REVELATION OF TRUTH

Another aspect of patience in spiritual practice is trusting that the truth

will reveal itself in due time. This involves letting go of the desire for
immediate results and accepting that understanding and wisdom come
gradually. It is about being open to the present moment and allowing
insights to emerge naturally.
This kind of patience requires a deep sense of surrender. The seeker must
let go of the ego’s need for control and trust that the universe will provide
what is needed at the right time. This surrender is not about giving up but
about aligning oneself with the natural flow of life.

TESTAMENT TO COMMITMENT

Patience is a testament to the seeker’s commitment to transcendental

realization. It shows a willingness to stay the course, no matter how long it
takes. This commitment is crucial for attaining the ultimate goal of self-
realization.

In conclusion, patience, as emphasized in Ashtavakra Gita 3.9, is a

multifaceted virtue that goes beyond mere endurance. It involves active
engagement with the inner journey, faith in the spiritual process, and trust
in the gradual revelation of truth. By cultivating patience, the seeker
demonstrates a deep commitment to the path of self-realization, paving the
way for profound spiritual growth and understanding.

LIBERATION FROM WORLDLY EVILS

The declaration “I am the one who is free from all kinds of evils”
encapsulates the essence of self-realization in Advaita Vedanta. Within
this philosophical framework, the self, or Atman, is understood to be
inherently pure, eternal, and untouched by the dualities and conflicts that
characterize the material world. A self-realized individual comes to
recognize their true nature as this Atman—an unchanging, infinite
consciousness that exists beyond all worldly concerns and moral
dichotomies. This profound realization brings with it an unparalleled sense
of liberation, as the individual ceases to identify with the transient ego,
which is constantly driven by myriad desires, fears, and sufferings. In this
enlightened state, the self is no longer influenced or tainted by the
fluctuations and upheavals of the external world, achieving a profound
inner purity and peace. The concept of being free from “all kinds of evils”
signifies more than just an absence of negative actions or thoughts; it
denotes a deep-seated state of being where the self remains unaffected by
the transient and often turbulent nature of worldly existence. This freedom
is not merely a moral or ethical freedom but a transcendental liberation
that arises from the direct perception of one’s true nature as pure
consciousness. In practical terms, this means that the individual, having
realized the Atman, navigates life with a profound equanimity,
unperturbed by the highs and lows that inevitably come with human
experience. They see through the illusion of separateness and duality that
typically governs human perception, understanding instead that all is one
and that this oneness is their true essence. This shift in perspective
fundamentally transforms their interaction with the world, leading to
actions that are naturally harmonious and compassionate, rooted in the
understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings. The recognition of
oneself as the Atman transcends all forms of identification with the ego,
dissolving the boundaries that typically segregate the self from others. As
a result, the self-realized individual experiences a deep sense of unity and
oneness with the universe, which manifests in a serene and unwavering
inner calm. Thus, being free from “all kinds of evils” is indicative of a
state where the self is no longer swayed by the external circumstances of
life, maintaining an inner tranquility and purity that is reflective of its true,
unchanging nature. This state of liberation is the ultimate goal of Advaita
Vedanta, a realization that the true self is beyond the ephemeral and
illusory nature of the world, and it is this realization that brings about the
ultimate freedom and peace that are the hallmarks of self-realization.

THE CONDITION OF THE WORLDLY SUBJECT

CONTRASTING THE LIBERATED SELF, THE VERSE HIGHLIGHTS
T H E P L I G H T O F T H O S E W H O A R E " V I C T I M S O F C R I T I C I S M ,"
ENCAPSULATING THE CONDITION OF INDIVIDUALS DEEPLY
ENMESHED IN WORLDLY IDENTITIES AND SOCIETAL
JUDGMENTS. THESE INDIVIDUALS ARE PERPETUALLY SUBJECT
TO THE WHIMS OF EXTERNAL VALIDATION, PRAISE, AND
BLAME, WHICH DICTATES THEIR SENSE OF SELF-WORTH AND
HAPPINESS, LEADING TO A LIFE FRAUGHT WITH ANXIETY AND
DISSATISFACTION. THE ASHTAVAKRA GITA SUGGESTS THAT
SUCH INDIVIDUALS ARE TRAPPED IN AN INCESSANT CYCLE OF
REACTION, WHERE THEIR INTERNAL STATE IS A MERE
REFLECTION OF THE FLUCTUATING OPINIONS AND
CIRCUMSTANCES AROUND THEM. THIS CYCLE PERPETUATES
THEIR SUFFERING, AS THEY REMAIN IGNORANT OF THEIR
INHERENT DIVINITY AND CONTINUE TO SEEK FULFILLMENT IN
THE TRANSIENT AND OFTEN HARSH REALM OF SOCIAL
INTERACTIONS. UNLIKE THE LIBERATED SELF, WHICH
RECOGNIZES ITS TRUE NATURE AS ATMAN—PURE,
UNCHANGING CONSCIOUSNESS—THESE INDIVIDUALS IDENTIFY
STRONGLY WITH THE EGO AND ITS MYRIAD DESIRES, FEARS,
AND SOCIETAL ROLES. THEIR LIVES ARE MARKED BY A
RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF APPROVAL AND A DEEP-SEATED FEAR
OF CRITICISM, WHICH LEAVES THEM VULNERABLE TO THE
INSTABILITY AND IMPERMANENCE OF THE EXTERNAL WORLD.
EVERY PRAISE FEELS LIKE A FLEETING HIGH, AND EVERY
CRITICISM LIKE A DEVASTATING BLOW, CREATING AN
EXISTENCE CHARACTERIZED BY EMOTIONAL TURMOIL AND A
LACK OF GENUINE PEACE. THE ASHTAVAKRA GITA TEACHES
THAT THIS STATE OF BEING IS A RESULT OF A FUNDAMENTAL
MISUNDERSTANDING OF ONE'S TRUE NATURE. WHEN
INDIVIDUALS FAIL TO SEE THEMSELVES AS THE ATMAN, THEY
GET LOST IN THE SUPERFICIAL ASPECTS OF THEIR IDENTITIES—
SUCH AS THEIR SOCIAL STATUS, ACHIEVEMENTS, AND
RELATIONSHIPS—WHICH ARE ALL SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND
DECAY. CONSEQUENTLY, THEY EXPERIENCE LIFE AS A SERIES
OF UPS AND DOWNS, WITH THEIR HAPPINESS ALWAYS
CONTINGENT ON EXTERNAL FACTORS BEYOND THEIR CONTROL.
THIS IGNORANCE OF THEIR TRUE, DIVINE NATURE KEEPS THEM
ENSNARED IN A NEVER-ENDING QUEST FOR VALIDATION,
APPROVAL, AND A SENSE OF BELONGING, WHICH CAN NEVER
PROVIDE LASTING FULFILLMENT. TRUE SELF-UNDERSTANDING,
AS ADVOCATED BY THE ASHTAVAKRA GITA, INVOLVES
RECOGNIZING AND EMBRACING THE SELF AS PURE
CONSCIOUSNESS, INDEPENDENT OF WORLDLY ATTACHMENTS
AND SOCIETAL JUDGMENTS. THIS REALIZATION LEADS TO AN
INNER TRANSFORMATION WHERE THE INDIVIDUAL NO LONGER
SEEKS VALIDATION FROM THE OUTSIDE WORLD BUT INSTEAD
FINDS PEACE AND CONTENTMENT WITHIN. THE LIBERATED
SELF, FREE FROM THE NEED FOR EXTERNAL APPROVAL, IS ABLE
TO NAVIGATE LIFE WITH EQUANIMITY AND GRACE,
UNAFFECTED BY THE TRANSIENT NATURE OF SOCIAL OPINIONS
AND MATERIAL SUCCESS. THIS INNER FREEDOM ALLOWS FOR A
LIFE OF GENUINE FULFILLMENT, WHERE ACTIONS ARE GUIDED
BY WISDOM AND COMPASSION RATHER THAN BY A NEED FOR
RECOGNITION OR FEAR OF CRITICISM. BY TRANSCENDING THE
EGO AND ITS ENDLESS DEMANDS, THE LIBERATED INDIVIDUAL
CAN EXPERIENCE TRUE JOY AND SERENITY, ROOTED IN THE
UNCHANGING REALITY OF THE ATMAN. THEREFORE, THE
CONTRAST BETWEEN THE LIBERATED SELF AND THOSE WHO
ARE VICTIMS OF CRITICISM HIGHLIGHTS A FUNDAMENTAL
CHOICE: TO REMAIN ENTANGLED IN THE SUPERFICIAL AND
EVER-CHANGING WORLD OF SOCIETAL JUDGMENTS OR TO SEEK
THE DEEPER TRUTH OF ONE'S OWN DIVINE NATURE, THEREBY
ATTAINING LASTING PEACE AND FULFILLMENT. THE
ASHTAVAKRA GITA CALLS UPON INDIVIDUALS TO PURSUE THIS
DEEPER UNDERSTANDING, EMPHASIZING THAT LIBERATION
FROM THE CYCLE OF REACTION AND SUFFERING IS POSSIBLE
THROUGH SELF-REALIZATION AND THE RECOGNITION OF ONE'S
TRUE ESSENCE AS PURE, ETERNAL CONSCIOUSNESS.

S E L F -C A R E AND INNER PEACE

“You are the only one who caresses the self” underscores the crucial role
of self-care and self-compassion in the spiritual journey. In the midst of
life’s manifold challenges, the self-realized individual turns inward,
nurturing their true self with wisdom, understanding, and an unwavering
sense of compassion. This inward focus is not to be misconstrued as
selfishness; rather, it embodies a profound recognition of the necessity to
maintain inner harmony and balance. By caressing the self, the individual
continually reinforces their connection with their true nature, ensuring that
they remain grounded and unshaken by the vicissitudes of external
turmoil. This deliberate practice of self-care is vital for sustaining the state
of liberation, as it helps to consistently distinguish the eternal self from the
transient ego. The self-realized person understands that external validation
and societal judgments are fleeting and unreliable, often leading to anxiety
and dissatisfaction. Therefore, they prioritize inner validation and self-
compassion, recognizing that true peace and fulfillment come from within.
This approach allows them to remain centered and composed, even in the
face of external chaos and adversity.

Self-care, in this context, involves a commitment to spiritual practices that

cultivate inner peace, such as meditation, reflection, and mindful living.
These practices help to quiet the mind, allowing the individual to connect
with their deeper self and to access the wisdom and clarity that reside
within. By regularly engaging in these practices, the self-realized
individual nurtures their spiritual well-being, creating a stable foundation
from which to navigate life’s challenges. This inner stability is essential
for maintaining the state of liberation, as it provides a constant reminder of
the distinction between the eternal self and the ephemeral ego. In
recognizing the importance of self-care, the self-realized individual also
acknowledges the interconnectedness of all aspects of their being. They
understand that physical, emotional, and mental well-being are all
interconnected and that neglecting one aspect can have a detrimental effect
on the others. Therefore, they approach self-care holistically, ensuring that
they attend to their needs in a balanced and comprehensive manner. This
holistic approach to self-care is not about indulging in self-centeredness
but about cultivating the inner strength and resilience needed to live a life
of purpose and compassion.

Moreover, this practice of caressing the self is not limited to moments of

tranquility and solitude; it extends to all aspects of life. The self-realized
individual carries this sense of inner nurturing into their interactions with
others, embodying compassion, empathy, and understanding. By
maintaining inner harmony, they are better equipped to respond to others
with kindness and equanimity, fostering positive relationships and
contributing to the well-being of their community. This outward
expression of inner peace and compassion further reinforces the state of
liberation, as it aligns their actions with their true nature. The practice of
self-care also involves a deep acceptance of oneself, including one’s flaws
and imperfections. The self-realized individual understands that self-
compassion means embracing all aspects of oneself with kindness and
without judgment. This acceptance is not about condoning negative
behavior but about recognizing that true growth and transformation come
from a place of love and understanding. By caressing the self with
compassion, the individual creates a nurturing environment in which they
can heal and evolve, moving closer to their true potential.

In essence, “You are the only one who caresses the self” is a call to
prioritize self-care and self-compassion on the spiritual path. It highlights
the importance of nurturing one’s true self, maintaining inner harmony,
and distinguishing the eternal self from the transient ego. This practice is
essential for sustaining the state of liberation, as it provides the foundation
for a life of peace, purpose, and compassion. Through self-care, the self-
realized individual not only enhances their own well-being but also
contributes to the well-being of others, embodying the interconnectedness
of all life.

CONCLUSION

The verse concludes with the powerful affirmation “I am not in any

trouble,” which reinforces the ultimate peace and stability inherent in the
self-realized state. This declaration captures the essence of the teachings
of Advaita Vedanta, emphasizing that the realization of one’s true nature
as Atman—the eternal, unchanging self—brings about a profound and
unshakeable peace. In this enlightened state, the individual transcends all
worldly troubles and dualities, finding rest in the pure awareness of their
true self. The teachings of the Ashtavakra Gita, especially verse 3.9,
provide a timeless reminder of the path to liberation, urging seekers to
cultivate patience, recognize their inner divinity, and maintain unwavering
self-awareness amidst the vicissitudes of life.

This profound realization is not just an intellectual understanding but a

lived experience that fundamentally transforms one's perception of
existence. The self-realized individual no longer identifies with the
transient ego, which is constantly buffeted by desires, fears, and external
circumstances. Instead, they recognize that their true essence is beyond all
these fluctuations, resting in a state of pure consciousness that is
untouched by the turmoil of the external world. This realization leads to a
deep and abiding sense of peace, as the individual understands that their
true self is beyond all forms of suffering and disturbance.

The path to this realization, as outlined in the Ashtavakra Gita, involves

several key practices. Firstly, it requires the cultivation of patience—a
theme that is emphasized throughout spiritual traditions. Patience in this
context is not merely passive waiting but an active engagement with one’s
inner journey. It involves a profound acceptance of the present moment
and a trust in the process of self-inquiry. By being patient, the seeker
acknowledges that true wisdom and understanding unfold in their own
time, and that trying to rush this process can lead to frustration and
disappointment. This patience is a testament to the seeker's commitment to
their spiritual journey and their faith in the ultimate realization of truth.

Furthermore, the verse highlights the importance of self-care and self-

compassion. The phrase “You are the only one who caresses the self”
underscores the necessity of turning inward and nurturing one’s true self
with wisdom and understanding. This inward focus is essential for
maintaining inner harmony and balance, which are crucial for sustaining
the state of liberation. By practicing self-care, the self-realized individual
ensures that they remain grounded in their true nature, unaffected by
external turmoil. This practice involves engaging in spiritual practices
such as meditation, reflection, and mindful living, which help to quiet the
mind and connect with the deeper self.

Moreover, the self-realized individual understands the importance of self-

compassion, embracing all aspects of oneself with kindness and without
judgment. This acceptance is crucial for true growth and transformation,
as it creates a nurturing environment in which one can heal and evolve. By
caressing the self with compassion, the individual cultivates inner strength
and resilience, which are essential for navigating life’s challenges.

The teachings of the Ashtavakra Gita also emphasize the importance of

distinguishing between the eternal self and the transient ego. The self-
realized individual recognizes that external validation and societal
judgments are fleeting and unreliable, often leading to anxiety and
dissatisfaction. Therefore, they prioritize inner validation and self-
compassion, understanding that true peace and fulfillment come from
within. This inner stability allows them to respond to others with kindness
and equanimity, fostering positive relationships and contributing to the
well-being of their community.

In essence, the affirmation “I am not in any trouble” encapsulates the

ultimate goal of self-realization: achieving a state of inner peace and
stability that is unaffected by external circumstances. The Ashtavakra Gita
3.9 offers a profound reminder of the path to liberation, urging seekers to
cultivate patience, practice self-care, and maintain unwavering self-
awareness. Through these practices, one can transcend worldly troubles
and dualities, recognizing their true nature as Atman and experiencing the
boundless peace that comes with this realization. This journey is not just
about intellectual understanding but about living a life grounded in the
deep awareness of one’s eternal, unchanging self, leading to a life of true
freedom and peace.
"A wise person, even when praised or persecuted, always sees only the
Self. Therefore, he neither rejoices nor gets angry." 🌟✨

True wisdom lies in recognizing the unchanging Self within, unaffected by

external praise or persecution. #SelfRealization #InnerPeace

"Stay centered in your true Self, beyond the highs and lows of external
validation. Wisdom is your constant guide." 🌿🧘‍♂️

Wisdom teaches us to remain undisturbed by praise or criticism, seeing

only the Self. #Wisdom #InnerStrength

"Embrace the wisdom that transcends all external praise and persecution.
Find peace in your true Self." 🌸🌟

A wise person remains untouched by external circumstances, finding

solace in the eternal Self. #SelfAwareness #SpiritualJourney

"In the face of praise or persecution, wisdom reveals the unchanging Self.
Rejoice in inner peace." 🧘‍♀️💫

The truly wise see beyond external events, finding joy and calm in the
eternal Self. #Mindfulness #PeaceWithin

"Let wisdom guide you to see only the Self, beyond praise and
persecution. Stay serene and grounded." 🌟🍃

A wise person remains calm and centered, seeing only the Self amidst
external fluctuations. #InnerWisdom #SpiritualGrowth

#Wisdom #SelfRealization #InnerPeace #Mindfulness #SpiritualJourney

#InnerStrength #SelfAwareness #PeaceWithin #SpiritualGrowth
#MindfulLiving