आत्मा के आस-पास

Summary

The document is a tribute on the 17th death anniversary of Acharya Tulsi, highlighting his work "Aatma Ke Aas-Paas" (Around the Soul). This composition combines Arhat Vani, Adhyatma Padavali, and Preksha Dhyan teachings. It was created during the Yogakshema year and focuses on living with a balance of nishchay (absolute) and vyavahar (practical) perspectives. The core teaching is to keep the body on the periphery and the soul at the center, understanding the distinction between self and others, refining one's sanskars, understanding karma theory, and remaining constantly aware of the soul. The text was edited by Sadhvipramukha Kanakprabhaji for easy comprehension. The work then presents a series of verses explaining spiritual concepts. It states that the original source of religion is the soul; knowing the soul leads to knowing everything. The main obstacles to self-realization are the two powerful defects of ego (ahankara) and possessiveness (mamakara). Ego is inseparably linked to upadhi (acquired attributes), while pure consciousness is without such attributes. The cycle of worldly behavior runs on the imposition of "I" onto various states like wealth or knowledge. When consciousness is dominated by upadhi and intense passions like anger, pride, and greed, self-realization is impossible. The distinction between "I am" (indicating upadhi) and "I is" (indicating existence) is key to self-awareness. Attachment (murchha) gives rise to the feelings of "I" and "mine." Matter (pudgal) is inert and soul is conscious; their relationship of owner and owned is due to murchha. A perverted view results from possessiveness, while equanimity leads to the rise of the soul. Considering external things as one's own is the root of suffering and causes forgetfulness of the self. Finally, karma is the cause of delusion (m