Symbolism and Importance in Hindu Thought
In Hindu philosophy, the mind is often likened to a lake. Just as a lake becomes turbulent with ripples when disturbed, the mind is disturbed by desires (Kama) and attachments (Moha). When we let go of desires and attachments, the mind becomes calm, like a still lake, reflecting clarity and peace. This teaching is fundamental in Hinduism, emphasizing that inner peace can only be achieved through detachment.
Desire and attachment are seen as the primary causes of suffering (Dukkha). The moment we allow ourselves to be controlled by them, we are trapped in the cycle of Samsara (the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth). Dropping them is akin to breaking free from this cycle, allowing the soul (Atman) to connect with the universal consciousness (Brahman).
Quotes from Hindu Scriptures (Excluding the Bhagavad Gita)
Yoga Vasishta: In the Yoga Vasishta, a foundational text of Advaita Vedanta, it is said:
"The mind is like an elephant in rut, tormented by the thoughts of desire and aversion. Only by dropping desires can the mind become tranquil and stable."
This quote highlights how desires act like intoxicants, causing the mind to be unstable. By removing them, we regain control over the mind.
Ramayana: In the Ramayana, the great epic by Valmiki, when Lord Rama is exiled to the forest, he says to Lakshmana:
"O Lakshmana, neither wealth nor power nor the kingdom gives one peace. It is detachment from desires and expectations that leads to true contentment."
Here, Rama teaches that the real kingdom to be won is not an external one but the inner domain of the mind, free from desires.
Stories from the Puranas
The Story of King Harishchandra: King Harishchandra is known for his unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness, even when it cost him his kingdom, wealth, and family. He lived as a destitute, yet he remained peaceful and calm because he had dropped all desires and attachments to material possessions. In the end, the gods restored everything to him, symbolizing how spiritual calmness and detachment lead to ultimate reward and peace.
The Story of Sati and Shiva: In the Shiva Purana, Sati, the daughter of Daksha, married Lord Shiva, who represents the ultimate renunciation. When Sati's father insulted Shiva, she immolated herself, illustrating her detachment from worldly relations and honor. Shiva, in deep grief, withdrew from all worldly concerns. This story symbolizes the destructive power of attachments and how even the greatest beings, like Shiva, had to practice detachment to maintain inner calmness.
Practical Relevance in Modern Life
In modern society, we live in a world where desires and attachments are amplified by materialism, social media, and the constant chase for success and validation. Whether it's the desire for a better job, a bigger house, or more recognition, our lives become stressful and anxiety-filled as a result.
However, practicing detachment doesn't mean renouncing the world or living like a hermit. Instead, it means engaging with life fully, but without attachment to the results or the material outcomes. This echoes the concept of Nishkama Karma—action without attachment to the results, a core teaching of the Hindu scriptures.
Practicality in Day-to-Day Life
Letting Go of Results: In day-to-day life, we can apply the principle of detachment by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. For example, if you're working on a project, instead of being anxious about whether it will succeed, focus on doing your best. This reduces stress and increases contentment.
Mindful Consumption: In a world of consumerism, desire is often stirred by constant advertising and social comparison. By practicing mindfulness in consumption, we can limit our attachment to material goods, understanding that they don't bring lasting happiness.
Attachment to Relationships: While relationships are essential, over-attachment can lead to suffering. If we expect others to always act according to our desires, we become disappointed. Practicing non-attachment allows us to love deeply but without possessiveness.
A Simple Story – The Sage and the Scorpion
A sage was sitting by a river when he saw a scorpion struggling in the water. He reached out to save it, but each time he did, the scorpion stung him. Someone nearby asked, "Why do you keep helping it when it stings you?" The sage replied, "It is the nature of the scorpion to sting, but it is my nature to help."
This story illustrates the essence of detachment. The sage acted with compassion without being attached to the result (whether the scorpion stung him or not). He maintained his inner calmness and fulfilled his duty, illustrating that the mind remains calm when we act without desire for reward.
Similar Examples in Other Cultures
The idea of dropping desire for inner peace is not unique to Hinduism. In Buddhism, the Four Noble Truths teach that desire is the root of all suffering. In Stoic philosophy, detachment from external circumstances (what is outside our control) is emphasized as the path to inner tranquility.
Additional Thoughts
In modern times, meditation, mindfulness, and practices of minimalism are gaining popularity as ways to reduce attachment and desire. These practices are directly aligned with the ancient Hindu teachings that emphasize inner simplicity over external complexity. When we drop attachments, we realize that true happiness lies within, not in external objects or circumstances.
The ancient Hindu saying that the mind becomes calm when desire and attachment are dropped has timeless relevance. It teaches us that peace is an internal state, not something that can be found in the external world. Through the practice of detachment, as emphasized in scriptures like the Yoga Vasishta and Ramayana, and stories from the Puranas, we learn that inner calm is within our reach when we let go of our desires and attachments. This wisdom is not only relevant in spiritual life but can also be a guiding principle in navigating the modern world, where desires and attachments often lead to stress, anxiety, and unhappiness.