आश्चर्यवत्पश्यति कश्चिदेन माश्चर्यवद्वदति तथैव चान्यः। आश्चर्यवच्चैनमन्यः श्रृणोति श्रुत्वाप्येनं वेद न चैव कश्चित्
The soul is described as marvellous by those who perceive it, speak of it, or hear about it. Each of these individuals finds the soul to be astonishing or wondrous, suggesting its true nature is beyond ordinary comprehension.
These verses offer a spiritual view of the enduring self. In a period of loss or change, you can consider that perspective without demanding that grief disappear or neglecting care for your body.
Go deeper into this verse
In Chapter 2, Verse 29, how do people react when they hear about the soul as mentioned in the verse with the word 'marvellous'?
Most people regard the soul as something extraordinary and mysterious when they hear about it. The verse emphasizes that only a few can truly appreciate or understand the marvel of the soul, indicating that its essence eludes common perception even when discussed or listened to.
Why does the verse state that even after hearing about the soul, some do not understand it?
The verse suggests that understanding the soul requires more than just hearing words; it requires deep realization and insight. Many may listen to teachings about the soul, but without inner reflection and spiritual maturity, its true nature remains concealed. This highlights the subtlety and profundity of self-knowledge.
In Chapter 2, Verse 29, what does the word 'āścaryavat' (marvellous) imply about the nature of the soul in this context?
The word 'āścaryavat' implies that the soul is extraordinary, mysterious, and beyond ordinary human experience. Its qualities are so subtle and profound that even wise individuals find it astonishing. This term encourages reverence and awe towards the essence of the soul.
Why is it that only a rare person truly understands the soul, according to this teaching on Hardly?
True understanding of the soul is rare because it transcends sensory perception and intellectual reasoning. The soul's nature is subtle and infinite, so only those who cultivate deep awareness and devotion can realize its truth. For most, the soul remains an abstract concept, but for the rare seeker with sincere inquiry and discipline, its reality becomes self-evident.
As marvellous one regardeth him; as marvellous another speaketh thereof; as marvellous another heareth thereof; yet having heard none indeed understandeth.