SHRI GURUBHYO NAMAHA
Part – 2: Comprises
“Delving Deeper into the Mind – The Four complex inner compartments.”
[Recap of Part -1: Introduction]
{ We had an Introduction to Antahkarana and how it practically influences, from life’s perspective}
Having an understanding of the “ANTAHKARANA” is akin to understanding the four compartments(aspects) or four petals of the lotus, believed as the sacred flower that forms the very foundation of one’s life’s joy, it’s described in our scriptures that our Muladhaara(Root – Foundational Root Chakra of our life) rests on these four petals or aspects.
By refining each of these aspects well, components of our complex Total mind, we pave the way for decisiveness, proficiency and fulfillment, profound peace, and bliss.
Let’s dive in!
Details of the Four compartments (aspects) of “Antahkarana.”
It’s said, “The whole of the body is in the mind, but the whole of the mind is not in the body. Therefore, the body will follow the mind; the mind does not follow the body. Mind is not a projection of the body, but the body is a projection of the mind.” Quote from the book ~ Samadhi~ Page. 33 | As quoted by H.H. Gurudev Swami Rama
‘Antahkarana’ as mentioned in(Ref.Part-1) is often referred to in our ancient Indian scriptures as the ‘inner vital instrument’ or the ‘functionality of the complex architecture’ of the totality of our mind. It consists of our four mind compartments(aspects) that shape our entire inner being; our whole life is dependent on the functional values of ‘Antahkarana.’
The ‘Antahkarana’ is not just something normal or a theoretical philosophical phenomenon or concept; it is a practical tool that has implications for our day-to-day life, and everyday living.
{It is also very essential to know that usually ‘Antahkarana’ and ‘Manas’ are referred to as ‘The Mind’ and many conflate that they resemble each other, but that’s not true they are neither the same nor resemble. By knowing the difference with an in-depth analysis between the two, it is obvious that both are extremely unique.
‘Antahkarana’ refers to ‘The whole~the totality of mind or the entire discerning faculty of our Mind’. Beyond just the brain or mind, the traits like thinking thought patterns, intuition, understanding, decision making, and such alike traits., every little detail is the function of this inner instrument called ‘Antahkarana’.
Let’s now understand the four components with some more depth!
1. Manas – Our Mind: The Manas is the most important aspect of the ‘Antahkarana’ responsible for processing all sensory experiences, impressions, and thoughts. It acts as the controller of the five sensory organs (jnanendriyas) and the 5 organs of action (karmendriyas), directing them toward various objects and experiences. The Manas is the emotional hub, where likes (rāga) and dislikes (dveṣa) arise, constantly creating a duality of choices—resolutions versus uncertainty, acceptance versus rejection. As the lowest faculty of the Antahkarana, it oscillates between different desires and decisions.
{Usefulness of a Purified Mind}: An uncontrolled mind leads to scattered, fragile thoughts, resulting in a chain of thoughts of stress and anxiety. In contrast, a well-trained, disciplined, and balanced mind brings focus, clarity, and emotional stability, which are crucial for effective decision-making and a successful peaceful life.
2. Buddhi – Our Intellect: The Buddhi is the highest faculty of the Antahkarana, responsible for judgements, discernment, and decision-making. Unlike mere intelligence or memory, which are functions of the brain, Buddhi is much beyond, a more advanced and matured component that provides clarity and insight to all our perspectives. It enables us to function with aptitude and governs the process of making sound decisions.
{Benefit of Sharpening the Buddhi – Our Intellect}:Our sharpened intellect enhances the ability to make better decisions, offering deeper insight and wisdom. It allows us to process sensory information accurately and foresee various outcomes, leading to more effective and conscious choices in life. Our intuitive ability is guided by Buddhi.
3. Ahamkara – Our Ego:Our Ahamkara is that component of the ‘Antahkarana’ that generates the sense of “I” or individual identity, forming the basis of self-awareness. It is responsible for the feeling of “I am” and the notion that “I am doing” everything, creating a personal identity and distinguishing oneself from others.
{Our Ego helps in Shaping our Identity}: ‘Ahamkara’ plays a crucial role in shaping our senses and identity by providing, sense of individuality and self-awareness. A healthy ego is essential for maintaining a balanced sense of self, giving us the confidence to navigate the world and fulfil our roles and responsibilities. However, a boosted inflated ego can lead to self~pride, arrogance, and conflict, as it boasts a ‘false sense of superiority and attachment’ to one’s own ideas and desires. Recognizing the role of ‘Ahamkara’ and cultivating a positive practice to maintain a balanced ego is harmonious for our self growth and higher consciousness.
4. Chitta – Our Subconscious: The Chitta is the storehouse of all memories, impressions (samskaras), and past experiences. It functions as the subconscious mind, where every thought, action, and experience is stored, often without conscious awareness. These accumulated impressions shape our behaviour patterns, belief systems, and emotional responses.
{Our Chitta creates Impressions and is vital in Influencing Behaviours}: The impressions stored in the Chitta, profoundly influence our behavior and emotional quotient and responses. {Positive and negative experiences alike leave imprints that can trigger automatic reactions, often bypassing pure conscious approach and thoughts.}
For example, past traumas may lead to fears or anxieties, while positive memories can foster feelings of joy and security***. By becoming aware of these deep-seated impressions and working to purify the Chitta, we can gain greater control over our instant reactions, transform negative thought patterns to positive ones, and cultivate a balanced, and peaceful state of mind and eventually life experiences.
The Role of Antahkarana in Daily Life:-
Practice_of_YOGA motivates us to delve deeper into life’s stages, by continually nurturing this inner instrument, enables confidence, and erases self-doubt. Immensely Purifies our ‘Antahkarana.’
Then We are encouraged to explore the vast universe within, rather than being swayed by external distractions.
Some Key Benefits noted : ( We will explore each point as per the separate faculties in our next Part 3&4)
- Clarity of Mind – A pure and clear transparent mind.
- Emotional Stability- Balanced emotions and feelings.
- Reduce Stress and Anxiety – Promotes inner peace.
- Enhanced Decision Making- Improves discernment and judgement abilities.
- Profound Self-Awareness – Greater control over the ego.
- Personal Transformation – Facilitates positive change.
- Spiritual Growth – Enables deeper meditation and self-realization.
(Part – 3 – To be continued… )
With Love,
Maddy
OJASWIN Joyful Living
Your own space of Joy & Peace