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Teachings From Sri Ramanuja Gita Bhashya - Controlling the Sense Objects

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Sri Ramanujacharya’s commentary on the slokas 59 to 61 in the Chapter II of the Bhagavad Gita -  Controlling the sense objects - teachings from Sri Ramanuja Gita Bhashya.

The sense objects are the food of the sense. The sense objects turn away from one who has withdrawn his senses from objects. But still one may hold the relish for them.

Relish means hankering. This means that the hankering of the sense objects does not go away by abstinence alone.


But even this hankering will go away when one sees that the essential nature of the self is superior to the sense objects and that the realization of this self gives greater happiness than the enjoyment of sense objects.

When there is an attempt to subdue the sense objects and realize the self there will always be a conflict in the mind.

With a desire to overcome this mutual dependence between the subduing of the senses and vision of the Self, one has to conquer the senses which are difficult to subdue on account of their attachment to sense-objects.

So, focusing the mind on Me (Krishna) who am the only auspicious object for mediation let him remain steadfast. When the mind is focused on Me as its object, then such a mind, purified by the burning away of all impurities and devoid of attachment to the senses, is able to control the senses. Then the mind with the senses under control will be able to experience the self.

Explanation:

Sri Ramanujacharya, a prominent philosopher and theologian in the tradition of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, emphasizes the complexity of spiritual practice in his teachings. His assertion that "When there is an attempt to subdue the sense objects and realize the self, there will always be a conflict in the mind" reflects a deep understanding of the human psyche and the challenges inherent in the pursuit of self-realization.

The Nature of Sense Objects

Sense objects refer to the various stimuli and desires that engage our senses and mind. These can include material possessions, sensory pleasures, and emotional attachments. In the context of Hindu philosophy, sense objects are often seen as distractions that keep individuals bound to the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara).

The Process of Subduing Sense Objects

Subduing sense objects involves controlling or renouncing these desires to focus on higher spiritual goals. This process is integral to many spiritual disciplines, including yoga, meditation, and ascetic practices. The Bhagavad Gita, another key text in Hindu philosophy, also discusses the importance of controlling the senses to achieve spiritual enlightenment.

The Conflict in the Mind

The conflict arises because the mind is naturally drawn to sense objects due to ingrained habits and desires (vasanas). When an individual attempts to suppress these tendencies, the mind resists. This resistance manifests as internal conflict, characterized by doubt, distraction, and emotional turbulence.

  1. Doubt and Uncertainty: The mind may question the value and feasibility of renouncing sense objects. Doubts about the path and its outcomes can create significant mental conflict.

  2. Distraction: The persistent allure of sense objects can distract the mind from focusing on spiritual practices. This tug-of-war between attraction and renunciation creates ongoing mental strife.

  3. Emotional Turbulence: The attachment to sense objects often has emotional components, such as fear of loss, attachment, and longing. These emotions can be challenging to overcome, adding another layer of conflict.

Realizing the Self

Realizing the self, or self-realization, is the ultimate goal in many spiritual traditions. It involves understanding one's true nature beyond the physical and mental identities, often described as recognizing the Atman (soul) and its unity with Brahman (the absolute reality).

The Role of Discipline and Grace

Sri Ramanujacharya’s teachings suggest that while personal effort and discipline are crucial in this journey, divine grace (kripa) also plays a significant role. The conflict in the mind can be mitigated through practices like devotion (bhakti), meditation, and ethical living, but ultimate peace and realization often require the grace of the divine.

Practical Implications

  1. Patience and Persistence: Understanding that conflict is a natural part of the process can help practitioners maintain patience and persistence.

  2. Balanced Approach: Instead of extreme renunciation, adopting a balanced approach that gradually reduces attachment to sense objects may be more sustainable.

  3. Support Systems: Engaging with a spiritual community, seeking guidance from a guru, and regular study of scriptures can provide support and reduce the intensity of internal conflict.

Sri Ramanujacharya’s insight into the conflict arising from subduing sense objects and realizing the self is a timeless observation on the human condition. It underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing the inherent challenges in spiritual practice. By combining personal effort with divine grace, individuals can navigate this conflict and progress towards self-realization