ESSAYS

Viveka is discernment — the ability to distinguish between what is eternal and what is temporary. It is the first and most essential qualification for Self-knowledge.

Vairagya is dispassion — the freedom that comes from knowing impermanent things cannot give lasting joy. It is not hatred or apathy, but clarity: engaging with the world without clinging or fear.

Uparati is the effortless withdrawal of the mind and senses from external preoccupation, leading to resting in one’s true nature.

Titiksha is the capacity to endure life’s inevitable opposites with cheerful acceptance. It steadies the mind for inquiry and prepares the seeker for Self-knowledge.

Shama is mastery of the mind, the ability to quiet distractions and direct thought toward Self-knowledge. It is the first jewel of the sixfold wealth in Vedanta.

Samadhana is the discipline of one-pointedness — the steady orientation of the mind toward Self-knowledge, free from distraction or dispersion.

Dama is restraint of the senses, the discipline of holding back impulses before they become action. It supports shama and safeguards the mind for Self-inquiry.

Shraddha means intelligent trust in the shastra and guru as a means of knowledge. It is not blind faith but the openness that allows Self-knowledge to be assimilated.

The ṣaṭka-sampatti are six disciplines that refine the mind and prepare it for Self-knowledge in Vedanta.

The sadhana-chatushtaya are discrimination, dispassion, discipline, and the desire for liberation. Together they ripen the mind, preparing it for Self-knowledge.

Adhikāritva refers to the inner preparedness of a student for Vedānta—the maturity of mind expressed in discrimination, dispassion, self-discipline, and sincere longing for liberation. Without these, the highest knowledge cannot be fully grasped.