The Beginning of the Search for the True ‘I’ and the Purpose of Sādhana
Our Divine Being (Bhagavān) is such a Reality that, when He remains concealed, even our closest loved ones may turn against us and, figuratively, put fire into our mouths and offer us oblations to death. In the statement: “I do not know anything, nor do I believe in anything,” — the presence of the ‘I’ is essential. It is from here that the true search for the real ‘I’ begins.
In this inquiry into the self, through deep reflection, the seers (ṛṣis) discovered a permanent and supreme ‘I’, whose true nature is beyond the reach of speech and mind. These same ancient sages declared that this Being is of the nature of Sat–Cit–Ānanda (Existence–Consciousness–Bliss).
The Vedas proclaim that He is both formless (nirguṇa) and with form (saguṇa).
- To the extent that He reveals Himself through His own power (śakti), and
- to the extent that we purify and refine our senses and, with Her help, grasp His nature —
He is saguṇa (with attributes).
Beyond that, His unknown, unrevealed aspect is referred to as nirguṇa. The seers who have realized the Truth have described His manifested aspect using names such as Saguṇa, Sat–Cit–Ānanda, Puruṣottama, and so on.
The Śakti, who is the source of infinite variety, limitless beauty, sweetness, and charm, infinite power, knowledge, and bliss, and the reservoir of all auspicious qualities — we are Her reflection or portion. That infinite Power lies dormant within us in seed form.
To awaken this Power, to fill ourselves with divine awareness (bhagavad-bhāva), to become empowered by Divine Śakti, and to dedicate ourselves to actions pleasing to the Divine — this is the supreme and ultimate purpose of life.