Ancient Indian philosophy has undertaken a meticulous examination of daily occurrences in a highly systematic manner. Bhatrihari Rishi (circa 450-500 AD) emerged as a notable grammarian, elucidating the process of verbal expression in his work 'Vakyapadiya'.
The words articulated through speech are essentially the initial reflections conceived within the mind. Gradually, these verbal expressions evolve into what is termed as 'Vaikhari Vani'. This Vaikhari Vani emanates from the realm of 'Madhyama Vani'. Analogously, the melodious notes produced by a flute are not contained within the instrument itself; rather, they stem from the breath of the flutist, with the flute serving as a conduit for their manifestation. Similarly, the spoken words mirror the thoughts conceived within our minds.
These thoughts take shape within our consciousness in the form of words, facilitated by a particular language. Whether it be Marathi, Hindi, or English, these thoughts are articulated through the corresponding linguistic medium. Initially, these thoughts manifest within our minds in a subtler form known as Madhyama, preceding the outward expression of Vaikhari.
However, prior to their verbalization, these thoughts undergo a process of incubation within the mind. This phase, characterized by the inception of thoughts before their verbal formulation, is termed 'Pashyanti' by Bhartrihari Rishi.
Preceding the transition of thoughts into Pashyanti, the mind assumes a state of nirvicara-nirvichara, devoid of cogitation. This state mirrors the essence of 'Aakash' (Space), the subtlest of the 'Panchamahabhutas' (Five elements), with its tanmatra (essence) being the word itself. From this realm, thoughts emerge into the consciousness in the Pasyanti state, marking the initial stirrings of cognition.
As thoughts descend into Pasyanti, accompanying bodily sensations arise, such as alterations in breathing patterns or tingling sensations. By cultivating awareness of these bodily sensations, one can intercept the transition of thoughts from Pasyanti to Madhyama. Reacting with equanimity during this phase helps in averting agitation caused by these thoughts. However, unconscious reactions to these sensations often lead to restlessness.
Vipassana meditation offers a pathway to heighten awareness of bodily sensations, thereby fostering inner tranquility. This ancient practice, referenced in the Vedas, was traditionally transmitted through the Guru-Shishya tradition, lacking detailed exposition in ancient scriptures. Gautama Buddha painstakingly revived the lost knowledge of Vipassana and devised a structured teaching methodology for its dissemination to the masses. Personally, I acquired this wisdom through participation in a Vipassana camp under the guidance of Goenka Guruji.
In homage to Sage Bhartrihari, whose scholarly inquiry delved into the genesis of thoughts.
©Santosh Factory Thane
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