धूमो रात्रिस्तथा कृष्णः षण्मासा दक्षिणायनम्। तत्र चान्द्रमसं ज्योतिर्योगी प्राप्य निवर्तते
The verse mentions smoke, night, the dark fortnight, and the six months when the sun moves southward as elements presided over by specific deities. These elements together form a particular path that a Yogi may take after leaving the body. Each represents a stage on this journey, guided by their respective divine presences.
The contrast between what passes and what endures invites a look at priorities. Notice whether your schedule serves only immediate rewards or also reflects your deeper commitments.
Go deeper into this verse
How is the moon described in relation to the Yogi's journey after death in this teaching on Yogi?
The moon is described as the destination where the Yogi, who follows the path of smoke, night, and the southern journey of the sun, attains a certain kind of brilliance or light. Upon reaching this lunar realm, the Yogi enjoys the fruits of his meritorious actions. However, this stay is temporary, and after experiencing the results of his deeds, he must return to the earthly plane.
What does it mean for a Yogi to be devoted to action with 'an interested motive' as described in this teaching on Yogi?
A Yogi devoted to action with 'an interested motive' is one who performs his duties and spiritual practices while seeking specific rewards, such as enjoyment in heaven or other personal gains. This intention shapes the path he follows after death. His journey leads to temporary heavenly realms rather than ultimate liberation, as his actions are not free from desire.
In Chapter 8, Verse 25, what is the significance of the gods presiding over smoke, night, and the dark fortnight in the context of the soul's journey?
The gods presiding over smoke, night, and the dark fortnight represent cosmic forces that influence different phases of the soul's journey after death. Passing through these stages signifies a path where the soul enjoys the results of good deeds but is ultimately bound to return to the cycle of birth and death. This illustrates that actions performed with attachment to results lead to temporary, not ultimate, freedom.
Why does the Yogi who follows the path of smoke and the southern course of the sun return to the mortal world, instead of attaining liberation?
The Yogi returns to the mortal world because his actions were motivated by personal desires and not performed in a spirit of complete detachment. The pleasures and merits gained in the heavenly realms are temporary and exhaust themselves over time. Without transcending attachment and personal gain, the soul remains bound to the cycle of birth and death, thus preventing final liberation.
Smoke, night-time, the dark fortnight also, the six months of the southern path—then the Yogî, obtaining the moonlight, returneth.