The genesis of man's desire to attain immortality goes back to ever since humans have existed on this Earth. Human beings nurture a longing for (a) Acquiring all pervasive knowledge (b) All kinds of freedom (c) Holding sway over all that exists and (d) Eternal happiness. These are the common traits found in humans. The ancient Indian Scriptures summaries these characteristics in three simple words: sat-cit-ananda. These words are used in the Scriptures to depict "Brahman" as well as " Atma". Brahman is the "Supreme Universal Self" while "Atma" is the Individual Self. They are believed to be non-different. This is the stand taken by almost all schools of thought. However, the Individual Self (Atma) is believed to be bound by certain limitations and bondages because of which "Jiva" experiences conflicts and dualities. They are manifested in the form of happiness, suffering, cold, heat, etc. "sat-cit-ananda" is associated with "Brahman" which is said to be in a state of Bliss. The true nature of "Atma" too is "sat-cit-ananda". But "Atma" is perceived to be ignorant of its true nature and is therefore subjected to bondages and limitations associated with the (physical) body. Therefore, "Atma" or "Jiva" can experience freedom from dualities, conflicts, sufferings and limitations only through Spiritual penance, austerity and by developing the ability to discriminate, discern and exercise detachment towards worldly, material existence. Spiritual Practices bring to light the true nature of the "Jiva" which is non-different from the "Supreme Self". The ancient sages performed Spiritual Practices that helped them to transcend worldly entanglements and shackles. This led them to experience limitless transcendental state of Pure Consciousness. Having tasted this state of Pure Consciousness, they preached these Spiritual Practices. They also preached that the root cause of "duhkha" (sorrow) is the "mind". Human existence or life is made possible because of the "mind". "Mind" is the gateway to life. It is also the cause of endless suffering and pain. Freedom from suffering and pain is "Moksa", "Mukti" or "Apavarga". Thus, it would be pertinent as well as useful to elaborate on the origin, genesis, nature, components, modalities, functioning and activities of the "mind". A lucid account of the nature of the "mind" appears in the 34th chapter of the "Sivasankalpasukta" of the Yajurveda. It is as profound as it is lucid.
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