The gold and copper in this ring are in the form of a mixture rather than a compound. The goldsmith, therefore, can easily separate the mixture. Similarly, the Self and the non-Self are in a mixture form and not in a compound form, which is why it is possible to extract one from the other. If they were in a compound form, it would not be possible to separate the two. That is why the Gnani Purush is able to separate the two, and one is able to understand the Self.

Questioner: What is the Gnan Vidhi?

Gnani: The Gnan Vidhi is the process that separates the Soul (Self) from the non-Self complex (pudgal). It is the separation of the animate (chetan) from the inanimate (achetan).
In the Gnan Vidhi, Gnan takes hold and the arising and entry of Gnan eliminates Agnan. Gnan is right belief. Agnan is wrong belief. I am shuddhatma is the right belief.

The spiritual practice after attaining Gnan is to follow the five agnas. One should not have any other endeavors. All other endeavors cause bondage. These five agnas release you from bondage.

These five agnas are a fence protecting your priceless treasure, i.e. Gnan. If you have a fully enclosed fence, nobody can take away the priceless treasure of Gnan. If this fence of five agnas becomes weak, then chances are that someone will enter and spoil the contents. Then the fence needs to be repaired. So, if you stay within the five agnas, your eternal bliss is guaranteed.

These five agnas are given for your protection. The Saint has given you the Gnan and the knowledge of separation. But for this separation to prevail, He gives you the five agnas for further protection. This age is that of deceit, dark age (kaliyug) and without protection, you are likely to be robbed of this invaluable treasure of Gnan. For the seed of Gnan to blossom into a full-bloomed tree, you will have to water it and nurture it.

…to be continued in next part…

–from the book shivoham

–Shikha Punjani