Delving Within: The Path to Inner Peace

To truly find inner peace, one must follow a structured path of contemplation and experience. This path involves three key stages: Sutra-Anupreksha (contemplation on aphorisms), Artha-Anupreksha (contemplation on the meaning), and Anubhuti (experience). Artha-Anupreksha serves as a gateway to Anubhuti, guiding us through the pathways to deeper experience.

The Teachings of Bhagavati and Yashovijay Maharaja

The essence of Bhagavati's teachings is encapsulated in the forty-five Agama scriptures, as summarized by Yashovijay Maharaja in the "Shripal Ras." The core message is: "Understand the essence of the Agamas and non-Agamas; Be steadfast in the self and do not indulge in the external."

The literal interpretation of the Sutra is straightforward: Stay focused on self-contemplation and avoid external distractions. In Artha-Anupreksha, the relationship between avoiding distractions and remaining steadfast in self-contemplation is explored. Avoiding distractions is the means, while steadfast contemplation is the goal.

The Role of External Objects

While the Sutra advises against indulgence in external distractions, it acknowledges that external objects can still play a role in practice. It is important to use them without forming attachments or aversions. For instance, one can eat simple food like roti and dal without becoming emotionally attached or distressed if not provided with food. Mahopadhyaya Shri Yashovijay Maharaja in the "Samadhi-Shatak" describes the practitioner who remains stable in their inner state despite worldly dealings.

The Practitioner's Approach

A practitioner deeply immersed in inner contemplation might seem detached from worldly interactions, yet their focus remains steady within. As seen with the venerable Jambuvijay Maharaja, even while engaging with others, the practitioner’s inner state remains unaffected. This illustrates that while external actions are necessary, the goal is to remain internally focused and stable.

Transformation Through Awareness

Initial stages of practice require strong awareness to avoid attachment or aversion towards external objects. Simple living and minimalistic choices, like eating plain meals and wearing simple clothes, help in reducing such attachments. This awareness eventually transforms into Anubhuti, where the experience of self-awareness eclipses the external.

The Path to Inner Realization

A seeker once asked Saint Nisargadatta to show a path from the external to the internal. The saint’s reply, "There is no such thing as outside. Where is the question of a path?" reflects the essence of inner realization. True inner peace is found when the external is transcended and only self-awareness remains.

In summary, the journey from Sutra-Anupreksha through Artha-Anupreksha to Anubhuti represents a profound inward exploration, leading to a state where inner joy and peace are fully realized, free from the constraints of external distractions.