“The Self is present in all states of being.”
The verse: Yoga Vasistha 4.22.28
The quote above is our paraphrase. This is the verse as it reads in the Vihari-Lala Mitra translation (1891–99):
“He perceives rightly, who perceives within himself the omnipotence of the infinite Spirit, to be present in all the states and conditions of beings, and the self-same Intellect to abide in and preside over all.”
About the text: Yoga Vasistha
The Yoga Vasistha is a long Sanskrit philosophical work, traditionally attributed to Valmiki, in which the sage Vasistha teaches Prince Rama through stories and dialogue. Its six books teach liberation through self-effort and insight. Scholars date it anywhere from about the 6th to the 14th century, and it probably grew over time.
More from the Yoga Vasistha
- “The story of Deva Puja teaches the essence of true worship.”
- “Turya is the gateway to the Absolute.”
- “Bhusunda’s life illustrates the power of sustained spiritual practice.”
- “Consistent practice leads to lasting transformation.”
- “Direct experience of the Self is the highest knowledge.”
- “Non-violence is the highest virtue.”