Shree Swaminarayan Temple, Itasca

Jay Shree Swaminarayan

Characteristic of detachment

Chapter-2

Types of the detachment

In Samvat 1876, on the fifth day of the first fortnight of the month of Margshirs, Shriji Maharaj was seated at night in the Durabar of Shri Dada Khachar at Gadhada. He was dressed in all white garments. The Devotees and the saints from the different places were assembled before him.

Then Mayaram Bhatt asked: "Oh Maharaj ! Kindly explain us the signs of three types of Vairagya, namely, intense, moderate and weak Vairagya.".

Shriji Maharaj replied : "One who has developed the intense Vairagya is engaged in mundane activities either by the desire of God or in accordance with the fruits of his Prarabdha but he never gets attached to these activities. Like King Janak, he remains fully detached in spite of perfect involvement in the most charming objects like Shabda, sparsh, Roopa, Rasa and Gandh. He does enjoy it as his Prarabdh has so desired him to enjoy, but with a feeling of perfect detachment and in a mood of unawareness. The inherent charm of these objects can not influence him adversely and his detachment does not loosen. Since he has realised that these seemingly enchanting objects are full of venom, and looks upon them with an eye of aversion. He would always maintain an unfailing contract with the Saints and the scriptures and would remain engaged in service. Therefore, in spite of adverse circumstances, 'the instinct of his Vairagya remains indomitable. Such a devotee possesses intense Vairagya.

A devotee who has moderate Vairagya does enjoy the most seductive Panchvishay with a feeling of perfect detachment. However, if the prevailing Circumstnaces become adverse due to time, space and company, he is likely to be involved in attachment and will weaken his Vairagya. One who possesses the least intensity is not likely to be drawn towards the Panchvishayas which do not hold any charm for him but if confronted with the seductiveness of charming objects, he is sure to be drawn towards them and get attached to them.

Thus Ends Vachanamrit: Gadhada - 2