Slokam 10

In this slokam, it is pointed out that in each place, the ultimate prayer and worship is directed to the Paramathma’s various forms.  Sun,  Moon, Fire, Water, are all recognized as the manifestations of the Paramathma.

The sun is said to be worshipped in Plaksha,  the Moon in Shalamala, the Fire in Kusa, the water in Krauncha, and the Air in Shaka.  It is also mentioned that devotees pray to the Paramathma in the form of the Brahman. 

Each and every form of perception should be recognized as the manifestation of the Paramathma.

In the state of Brahman, the power of perception is also recognized,  every moment, as the power of the Paramathma

Recognizing that this power of perception belongs to the Paramathma and that He is the perceiver that is looking at His own forms that manifest in various shapes, sizes, colors and functions,  is a very difficult attainment. 

It is relatively easy to recognize that the “external”  objects that we perceive through the senses are the manifestations of the Paramathma.  It is extremely difficult to acknowledge that the perceiver within us is also the Paramathma. 

Giving up this inner identity requires the transition of the identity from the level of the mind to the level of consciousness. 

When we locate the identity in the mind, it is subject to sensual desires and physical struggles.  It is very difficult to recognize the identity as being the Paramathma, because the mind is built out of conflict.  It is self centered, and its only purpose is physical preservation.

Consciousness, on the other hand is universal.  It does not have worldly desires,  ambitions or goals. 

Consciouness is our highest level of existence.  It is our only link or channel to attain the Paramathma.

Consciousness is eternal awareness.

Consciousness is universal.  It is devoid of identity.  It is selfless. 

Consciousness is devoid of conflict, or attachment.

Consciousness transcends the physical.  Consciousness is the abode of the highest principles of life such as Dharma,  Eternal love for all, including the self. 

Above all, consciousness is the seat of control over the forces that pull the mind in various directions.  Being endowed with the quality of selflessness, our consciousness will restrain the mind from succumbing to worldly temptations.

Eternity,  most surprisingly is devoid of the dimension of time.  There is no difference between one second and a million years,  This is why those who obtain moksham or release from the physical, do not return to the cyclical life of birth and death. 

May we continue the effort of transcending the physical by recognizing that the objects of perception are the different manifestations of the Paramathma.  Most importantly,  it must be recognized that the perceiver “within us” is also the Paramathma.  We then become completely selfless,  we lose fear,  we becoming accepting, progressive and above all we reside, consciously, in the universe of the Paramathma, which is pure love, devoid of conflicts.