The maxim of the ornament being nothing but gold is oft quoted in Vedanta. The doubt may arise that though the gold be the basis, still differences are perceived and even graded within a set of gold ornaments, giving rise to different values.
Two gold ornaments may differ in the quality of their workmanship. One may be superbly crafted while the other only poorly so. Still the goldsmith agrees to evaluate the two on the basis of their differences, only because of the solid fact that they are both really gold. Were he asked to evaluate two superbly crafted ornaments, one of gold and the other of wood, he would assuredly excuse himself.
Viveka is the ability to differentiate what is changeless from what is temporary or misleading. Viveka is the ability to discern that which underlies all names and forms, the One because of which differences acquire value. By Viveka one moves from the certainty that one is this body to the certainty that one is bodiless.
Explanation:
The above description draws a parallel between the ability to perceive the underlying oneness behind the apparent diversity in the world, and the spiritual practice of Viveka (discernment) in Vedanta. Let’s expand on the symbolism, importance, and modern-day relevance of this principle.
The Maxim of Gold and Ornaments in Vedanta
In Vedanta, the metaphor of gold and ornaments is used to illustrate the relationship between Brahman (the ultimate reality) and the manifest world. The gold represents the unchanging essence, while the various ornaments symbolize the diversity of names and forms that exist in the world. Though the ornaments may differ in size, shape, or craftsmanship, their essence is gold. Similarly, all the diversity we perceive in the world—people, objects, and experiences—is ultimately underpinned by the same divine essence.
The key lesson here is that:
- Gold = Brahman (the Supreme Consciousness, unchanging reality)
- Ornaments = Manifest World (all changing forms and names)
No matter how many forms gold takes (bangles, necklaces, rings), its essence remains the same. In the same way, behind all individual beings and objects lies one undivided reality, which is Brahman.
Viveka: Discriminative Wisdom
Viveka refers to the ability to discern between the real (unchanging) and the unreal (changing). It is the first step on the path of Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge), helping seekers realize their true nature, which is beyond the body, mind, and emotions. Viveka is essential for spiritual growth because without it, one remains caught in the illusion (maya) of diversity and misses the underlying unity of all existence.
Example of Viveka in Scriptures
A classical analogy used in Hindu scriptures is that of a rope and a snake:
- A person in dim light mistakes a rope for a snake and experiences fear. Once the light is brought in, the person sees the rope and realizes there was never a snake—it was an illusion.
- Here, the rope represents the underlying reality (Brahman), and the snake represents the illusion of the world of forms (maya).
The Bhagavad Gita speaks about Viveka in several verses. In Chapter 2, Lord Krishna tells Arjuna:
“That which is real never ceases to be, and that which is unreal never comes into existence.” (Bhagavad Gita 2:16)
This verse refers to the importance of understanding what is eternal (the Self) versus what is temporary (the body, the material world).
Symbolism of Gold and Ornaments
This metaphor can also be extended to how we perceive differences between individuals or circumstances:
- Gold symbolizes the eternal, unchanging soul (Atman), which is the same in every individual.
- Ornaments symbolize the differences in bodies, minds, talents, social status, and so on, which are all superficial.
The goldsmith in the example represents the wise person who recognizes the essence in all beings. Just as the goldsmith distinguishes between different qualities of workmanship only because all ornaments are fundamentally made of gold, the wise person understands that the value of different lives, experiences, or talents lies in the fact that they all share the same divine essence.
Practicality in Modern-Day Life
In everyday life, practicing Viveka means:
Seeing Beyond Superficial Differences: We often get caught up in judging others based on their appearance, social status, or achievements. Practicing Viveka encourages us to see beyond these differences and recognize the divinity in everyone.
Dealing with Success and Defeat with Equanimity: Viveka helps us realize that both success and failure are temporary experiences. The underlying self is untouched by these ups and downs. This realization can bring balance and inner peace, even in difficult situations. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises:
“Be steadfast in yoga, O Arjuna. Perform your duty and abandon all attachment to success or failure.” (Bhagavad Gita 2:48)
Detachment from Material Possessions: Just as the value of the ornament lies in its gold, not in its form, Viveka reminds us that the true value of life lies in the inner self, not in material possessions or status.
A Simple Story from Hinduism
There is a well-known story of Raja Janaka (a wise king) and the sage Ashtavakra, which illustrates Viveka. One day, while Raja Janaka was in deep meditation, someone ran into his palace and yelled, "The city is on fire!" Janaka, unshaken, calmly responded, "Let the city burn." His response confused everyone, but Janaka explained that while his kingdom and wealth may perish in the fire, his true self (the Atman) remains untouched.
This story shows that a person with Viveka understands that material things come and go, but the essence of the self is eternal.
Modern-Day Relevance
In today’s world, the principle of Viveka can be applied in various contexts:
- Relationships: Instead of focusing on superficial qualities (such as beauty, wealth, or status), we can strive to connect with the inner essence of others, fostering deeper, more meaningful relationships.
- Career and Work: A person practicing Viveka knows that while professional success is important, it is not the ultimate goal of life. The goal is to realize one's true nature, which is beyond external achievements.
- Mental Peace: By recognizing the temporary nature of difficulties, failures, and even pleasures, one can maintain a sense of calm and balance in life. This brings mental clarity and reduces stress.
Quotes from Hindu Scriptures
Vivekachudamani by Adi Shankaracharya elaborates on this principle beautifully. One of the verses states:
"Brahman is the reality, the world is an appearance. The jiva is nothing other than Brahman." (Verse 20)
The Upanishads also echo this idea:
“All this is Brahman. Let a man meditate upon that, considering the world as unreal and the Self as real.” (Chandogya Upanishad 3:14:1)
Viveka—the discriminative wisdom to see the unchanging in the midst of change—offers immense practical value. It brings peace, equanimity, and a deeper understanding of life’s true purpose. In our daily lives, cultivating Viveka helps us focus on what truly matters, avoiding unnecessary distractions and attachments. Through the analogy of gold and ornaments, we are reminded that though the world may appear diverse, the essence of everything is the same divine reality. Recognizing this truth elevates our perspective, allowing us to live with wisdom, compassion, and balance.
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Dhyana is concentration on an object. It fulfills the purpose of keeping away diverse thoughts and fixing the mind on a single thought, which must also disappear before Realization. But Realization is nothing new to be acquired. It is already there, but obstructed by a screen of thoughts. All our attempts are directed for lifting this screen and then Realization is revealed." — Sri Bhagavan in TALKS p. 357