Introduction:
All-Absorbent Meditation: also, it is known as “Samvarga Vidya“
The term "Samvarga Vidya" is mentioned in several of the Upanishads, including the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad and the Chhandogya Upanishad. In these texts, it is described as a practice of meditation that leads to the realization of the ultimate reality or truth behind all things.
All-Absorbent Meditation is a term from the ancient Indian spiritual tradition of Vedanta. It refers to a practice of meditation that involves focusing the mind on the ultimate reality or truth behind all things and experiencing a state of pure consciousness in which the individual self merges with the Universal Self.
In this practice, the meditator seeks to absorb all of their mental and emotional energies into the object of meditation, which is the ultimate reality or divine essence that underlies all of existence. The goal is to transcend the limited sense of individual self and merge with the infinite consciousness [ Known as “Brahman” Vedanta] that pervades all things.
The practice of Samvarga Vidya is considered to be one of the most advanced forms of meditation in the Vedantic tradition, requiring a high degree of concentration, detachment, and devotion to spiritual ideals. It is said to lead to a profound sense of inner peace, clarity, and spiritual insight, as well as a deep understanding of the nature of reality and the Self.
In the Chhandagyo Upanishad, All-Absorbent Meditation or Samvarga Vidya is described as the process of merging the individual soul with the ultimate reality or Brahman. This Vidya comes in the form of a story. The story of King Janasruti and Raikva.
I have published the story in my blog. The link is given above.
The story of King Janasruti and Raikva is a famous tale from the ChAndogya Upanishad, which illustrates the importance of humility, devotion, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. The story is found in the fourth chapter of the Upanishad, spanning from 4.1 to 4.3.
The story of King Janasruti and Raikva is a powerful illustration of the importance of humility and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge, as well as the idea that true wisdom can come from unexpected sources. It also emphasizes the importance of having a qualified teacher who can guide one on the path to spiritual enlightenment.
King Janasruti sat with pride, Thinking himself so wise and right. But his heart was longing for the truth, The knowledge that would bring him to light.
Raikva, a humble cart driver, came along and caught the king’s eye. “Teach me,” said Janasruti with desire, “The knowledge that makes the heart fly.”
Raikva replied with a gentle smile, “I am but a mere cart driver, O king. What knowledge can I impart to thee, When thou hast riches and power in thy ring?”
Janasruti bowed down with humility, Humbled by Raikva’s wise words. “I seek not thy wealth or status, O king, But the knowledge that frees the soul like birds.”
Raikva then shared the truth with him, that knowledge is not in wealth or name. But in devotion and love for the divine, which alone can bring one eternal fame.
The king was humbled by Raikva’s grace, and he bowed down with folded hands. “Thou art the true teacher, O wise one, who has shown me the path to the divine lands.”
Conclusion:
What is All-Absorbent Meditation?
Every one of us is pulled towards the objects of sense, whereas we cannot pull anything into our own selves. Senses are always outward. We are like slave of the outwardly pleasures of sense. Therefore, we are slave of worldly pleasures. How can we absorb these outwardly pleasures, desires? How can we make these desires our slaves? If we can understand the teachings imparted by Raikva, we can control our desires and make them our slaves. Therefore consuming (controlling) desires and merging them inside, we can make them our slaves. They will be at our feet. This Vidya is also known as Samvarga Vidya, a technique of Meditation.