Four shlokas from **Chapter 14** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today’s context:

Four shlokas from **Chapter 14** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today’s context:

---

### **Chapter 14 - आत्मन्यात्मानम् (The Self in the Self)**

1. **यस्त्वस्मिन्मोक्षसङ्गात्स्थितः सुखमश्नुते।**

   **न तु प्रकटते यस्तु चित्तं तत्सुखमेव सः॥1॥**

   **yastv-asmin mokṣasaṅgāt sthitaḥ sukham aśnute |**  

   **na tu prakaṭate yastu cittaṁ tat-sukhameva saḥ ||1||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yastv-asmin mokṣa-saṅgāt sthitaḥ sukham aśnute |*  

   *na tu prakaṭate yastu cittaṁ tat-sukhameva saḥ ||1||*

   **Relevance:** One who remains established in liberation enjoys happiness, which does not manifest for those whose mind is absorbed in that happiness.  

   This verse highlights that true happiness comes from being rooted in liberation. In the modern context, it suggests that genuine contentment arises from inner freedom rather than external circumstances.

---

2. **न युक्तस्य पराणं हि धर्मस्यात्मविष्णुता।**

   **सर्वमस्त्यात्मनं दृष्ट्वा सुखं प्रत्ययमात्मनः॥2॥**

   **na yuktasya parāṇaṁ hi dharmasyātma-viṣṇutā |**  

   **sarvam astyātmanam dṛṣṭvā sukham pratyayam ātmanaḥ ||2||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *na yuktasya parāṇaṁ hi dharmasya ātma-viṣṇutā |*  

   *sarvam astyātmanam dṛṣṭvā sukham pratyayaṁ ātmanḥ ||2||*

   **Relevance:** For one who is not united, the essence of dharma is the Self's sustenance, and seeing everything as the Self, happiness is a certainty of the Self.  

   This verse teaches that recognizing the Self in all things leads to certain happiness. In today’s world, this implies that perceiving unity and interconnectedness in all aspects of life fosters lasting joy.

---

3. **न स्वात्मानं द्रष्टव्यम् आत्मनोऽस्मिन्कृतं यथा।**

   **सर्वस्य यदसारं तु यत्र प्राप्तमधः स्थितम्॥3॥**

   **na svātmanam draṣṭavyam ātmano'smin kṛtaṁ yathā |**  

   **sarvasya yadasāraṁ tu yatra prāptam adhaḥ sthitam ||3||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *na svātmanam draṣṭavyam ātmano'smin kṛtaṁ yathā |*  

   *sarvasya yadasāraṁ tu yatra prāptam adhaḥ sthitam ||3||*

   **Relevance:** The Self should not be seen as the result of one's own actions; rather, that which is substantial in everything, where it is attained, remains below.  

   This verse indicates that the Self is not an outcome of actions but is inherent in everything. In contemporary terms, it suggests that true essence is not created but is inherently present and discovered through understanding.

---

4. **न हि योगसमं सत्त्वं मनःप्राणकर्मणा।**

   **प्राप्तव्यान्न बन्धनं तु यथातत्त्वं न युक्ततः॥4॥**

   **na hi yoga-samaṁ sattvaṁ manaḥ-prāṇa-karmaṇā |**  

   **prāptavyān na bandhanaṁ tu yathātattvaṁ na yuktataḥ ||4||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *na hi yoga-samaṁ sattvaṁ manaḥ-prāṇa-karmaṇā |*  

   *prāptavyān na bandhanaṁ tu yathātattvaṁ na yuktataḥ ||4||*

   **Relevance:** There is no equivalent to the quality of the Self in yoga, which involves mind, life force, and action. It should be attained without bondage and as per the truth.  

   This verse suggests that the quality of the Self is unparalleled in yoga, involving the integration of mind, life force, and action. It highlights the importance of achieving this understanding without attachment or constraint, promoting an approach based on truth.

---

### **Relevance of Chapter 14 Today:**

Chapter 14 of the **Ashtavakra Gita** delves into the essence of self-realization and the nature of true happiness and understanding. It highlights the importance of recognizing the Self as inherent and independent of external actions or circumstances. In modern life, this chapter encourages individuals to seek true contentment through inner freedom and self-awareness rather than external achievements. It promotes a profound understanding of the Self, leading to lasting peace and happiness that transcends material or superficial pursuits.

Three shlokas from **Chapter 13** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today’s context:

Three shlokas from **Chapter 13** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today’s context:

---

### **Chapter 13 - एकस्मिन (The One Reality)**

1. **न च स्वाधीनात्कर्मणो लब्धं न त्यजति किञ्चन।**

   **वेदः साक्षिणः सम्यग्न सत्त्वं येन समाश्रितः॥1॥**

   **na ca svādīnātkarmaṇo labdhaṁ na tyajati kiñcana |**  

   **vedaḥ sākṣiṇaḥ samyagnā sattvaṁ yena samāśritaḥ ||1||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *na ca svādīnātkarmaṇo labdhaṁ na tyajati kiñcana |*  

   *vedaḥ sākṣiṇaḥ samyag nā sattvaṁ yena samāśritaḥ ||1||*

   **Relevance:** One who is rooted in the Self does not abandon any actions, and the witness sees the true state of being by the one who is supported by the essence of truth.  

   This verse emphasizes the stability and perseverance of a true seeker. In the modern context, it highlights the importance of remaining steadfast and grounded in one’s values and principles, even amidst challenges.

---

2. **न हि वेद्यं त्यजति त्यागेन सकलान्तरम्।**

   **प्रवृत्तिं च यथा पश्येत्संयुतस्य स्थिता गतिḥ॥2॥**

   **na hi vedyaṁ tyajati tyāgena sakalāntaram |**  

   **pravṛttiṁ ca yathā paśyetsamyutasya sthitā gatiḥ ||2||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *na hi vedyaṁ tyajati tyāgena sakalāntaram |*  

   *pravṛttiṁ ca yathā paśyet saṁyutasya sthitā gatiḥ ||2||*

   **Relevance:** One does not abandon what is to be known by renunciation, and one sees the progress of activity as a result of combined effort and stable direction.  

   This verse underscores that true understanding and progress come from recognizing and engaging with the process rather than rejecting it. In today’s world, it encourages active participation and understanding rather than avoidance.

---

3. **न सत्त्वनित्यं यत्कर्म परा तत्त्वनिर्णयः।**

   **सर्वेऽस्मिन्स तु लोकान्तर्भूततत्त्वज्ञानविकृतः॥3॥**

   **na sattvanityaṁ yat karma parā tattva-nirṇayaḥ |**  

   **sarve'smins tu lokāntarbhūtattva-jñāna-vikṛtaḥ ||3||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *na sattva-nityaṁ yat karma parā tattva-nirṇayaḥ |*  

   *sarve'smin tu loka-antarbūta-tattva-jñāna-vikṛtaḥ ||3||*

   **Relevance:** Actions that are not constant and are determined by higher principles become transformed through knowledge of the inner reality present in all beings.  

   This verse highlights that actions are transformed by understanding the deeper reality within all beings. In contemporary life, it suggests that deeper awareness and understanding can change the nature and impact of our actions.

---

### **Relevance of Chapter 13 Today:**

Chapter 13 of the **Ashtavakra Gita** focuses on the nature of reality and the understanding of the Self. It emphasizes that true realization involves recognizing the essence of actions and the witness beyond them. In today’s context, this chapter encourages a deeper understanding of one’s actions and their impact, urging individuals to remain grounded in their core values and principles while actively participating in life. It promotes the idea that true wisdom and progress come from integrating inner knowledge with external actions, fostering a balanced and enlightened approach to life.

Seven shlokas from **Chapter 12** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliterati

Seven shlokas from **Chapter 12** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today’s context:

---

### **Chapter 12 - निरुपाधि (Beyond Limitations)**

1. **न हि पश्यामि बन्धं विना सत्त्वसुखान्मयम्।**

   **स्नेहधारणया मुक्तो मुञ्चति स्वप्नमायया॥1॥**

   **na hi paśyāmi bandhaṁ vinā sattvasukhānmayam |**  

   **snehadhāraṇayā mukto muñcati svapnamāyayā ||1||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *na hi paśyāmi bandhaṁ vinā sattvasukhānmayam |*  

   *sneha-dhāraṇayā mukto muñcati svapna-māyayā ||1||*

   **Relevance:** One does not see bondage without experiencing the bliss of the Self. By holding onto affection and attachment, one is liberated from the illusion of dreams.  

   This verse reflects the idea that true liberation comes from understanding the essence of joy and love, which transcends worldly illusions. In today’s context, it suggests that deep relationships and inner contentment can help overcome illusions of bondage.

---

2. **सर्वेषां मुञ्चतः पाण्डेय प्रवृत्तिं सर्वधर्मतः।**

   **न सा युक्तस्य मुञ्चति सुखस्य विपर्ययः॥2॥**

   **sarveṣāṁ muñcataḥ pāṇḍeya pravṛttiṁ sarvadharmataḥ |**  

   **na sā yuktasya muñcati sukhasya viparyayaḥ ||2||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *sarveṣāṁ muñcataḥ pāṇḍeya pravṛttiṁ sarva-dharmataḥ |*  

   *na sā yuktasya muñcati sukhasya viparyayaḥ ||2||*

   **Relevance:** For all beings, there is no release from activity when pursuing righteousness, and there is no deviation from happiness for those who are united.  

   This verse emphasizes that engaging in righteous action and maintaining unity are essential for true happiness. It highlights that fulfillment comes from balanced, ethical living rather than escaping activity.

---

3. **नात्यन्तं न चात्मानं बन्धनं किमपि स्थितम्।**

   **सर्वेऽवस्थितत्वेन द्रष्टव्यः प्रवृत्तिदर्शनः॥3॥**

   **nātyantaṁ na cātmānaṁ bandhanaṁ kimapi sthitam |**  

   **sarve'vasthitatvena draṣṭavyaḥ pravṛttidarśanaḥ ||3||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *nātyantaṁ na cātmanam bandhanaṁ kimapi sthitam |*  

   *sarvē'vasthitatvēna draṣṭavyah pravṛtti-darśanaḥ ||3||*

   **Relevance:** There is no extreme or fixed state of bondage or the Self; everything should be seen as part of the inherent nature of activity.  

   This verse teaches that rigid concepts of bondage or the Self are illusions. It encourages understanding that all experiences are aspects of natural processes, promoting flexibility and acceptance in today’s ever-changing world.

---

4. **अध्यात्मध्यानयोगस्य रेजते तु सत्त्वतः।**

   **न स्वान्तरेऽपि चित्तस्य भेदो नाथनायके॥4॥**

   **adhyātma-dhyāna-yogasya reśate tu sattvataḥ |**  

   **na svāntare'pi cittasya bhedo nāthānāyake ||4||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *adhyātma-dhyāna-yogasya reṣate tu sattvataḥ |*  

   *na svāntare'pi cittasya bhedo nāthānāyake ||4||*

   **Relevance:** In the practice of spiritual meditation, the purity of the mind remains unaffected by distinctions or divisions.  

   This verse underscores that spiritual practice helps maintain inner purity regardless of external differences. In the modern context, it highlights the importance of consistent inner practice for maintaining clarity and focus amidst diverse experiences.

---

5. **यस्तु सर्वतत्त्वज्ञस्तत्त्वं तत्त्वमवस्थितम्।**

   **सर्वज्ञस्तत्त्वज्ञानं तु निर्गुणं सुगुणान्वितम्॥5॥**

   **yastu sarvatattvajnāstatvaṁ tattvamavasthitam |**  

   **sarvajñastattvajñānaṁ tu nirguṇaṁ suguṇānvitam ||5||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yastu sarva-tattva-jñāḥ tattvaṁ tattvam avasthitam |*  

   *sarva-jñaḥ tattva-jñānaṁ tu nirguṇaṁ su-guṇa-anvitam ||5||*

   **Relevance:** One who knows the essence of all things is truly wise and perceives both the attribute-less and the attribute-laden.  

   This verse indicates that true wisdom involves understanding both the fundamental essence and the qualities of all things. In modern times, this highlights the importance of a holistic perspective that integrates both essential truths and their manifestations.

---

6. **न हि यस्तु तत्त्वज्ञस्य न तत्त्वज्ञानमप्यसि।**

   **यथा सत्त्वमधिगच्छति तत्त्वमस्मिन्न योगिनाम॥6॥**

   **na hi yastu tattvajñāsyā na tattvajñānam apyasi |**  

   **yathā sattvam adhigacchati tattvam asminna yoginām ||6||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *na hi yastu tattva-jñāsyā na tattva-jñānam apyasi |*  

   *yathā sattvam adhigacchati tattvam asmin na yoginām ||6||*

   **Relevance:** One who knows the essence of the Self does not attain true knowledge if there is no understanding of the essence itself.  

   This verse teaches that true spiritual understanding involves grasping the essence of the Self. In contemporary life, it reminds us that deeper comprehension comes from recognizing the fundamental truths underlying our experiences.

---

7. **अधिगतस्य च स्थायी वृत्तिं प्राप्तवति योगतः।**

   **न तु दृश्यसत्त्वस्तु वृत्ते च द्रष्टृता यथा॥7॥**

   **adhigatasya ca sthāyī vṛttiṁ prāptavati yogataḥ |**  

   **na tu dṛśyā-sattvas tu vṛtte ca dṛṣṭṛtā yathā ||7||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *adhigatasya ca sthāyī vṛttiṁ prāptavati yogataḥ |*  

   *na tu dṛśya-sattvas tu vṛtte ca dṛṣṭṛtā yathā ||7||*

   **Relevance:** The one who attains a stable state through yoga does not perceive the world as real, like a dream for the seer.  

   This verse highlights the distinction between stable inner realization and the external world’s transient nature. It serves as a reminder that true inner stability involves transcending illusions of the material world, which remains impermanent.

---

### **Relevance of Chapter 12 Today:**

Chapter 12 of the **Ashtavakra Gita** addresses the concept of liberation from limitations and the nature of true spiritual realization. In today’s fast-paced and materialistic society, where individuals often grapple with attachments and illusions, this chapter offers profound insights into achieving inner peace and understanding. It emphasizes that true wisdom involves transcending superficial distinctions and recognizing the essence of all things. By applying these teachings, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of unity, inner stability, and liberation from the constraints of material existence.

Five shlokas from **Chapter 11** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today’s context:

Five shlokas from **Chapter 11** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today’s context:

---

### **Chapter 11 - योग (Yoga or Union)**

1. **यस्तु निर्भिद्यते पापे न चित् स्वप्नपदविभागः।**

   **न भेदस्तत्र पश्यति योगि पश्यति योगी॥1॥**

   **yastu nirbhidyate pāpe na cit svapnapadavibhāgaḥ |**  

   **na bhedastatra paśyati yogi paśyati yogī ||1||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yastu nirbhidyate pāpe na cit svapna-pada-vibhāgaḥ |*  

   *na bhedaḥ tatra paśyati yogi paśyati yogī ||1||*

   **Relevance:** The one who is free from sin and division, and who perceives no difference between waking and dreaming states, is a true yogi.  

   This verse highlights the state of unity and purity that comes with genuine spiritual practice. In today’s context, it underscores the importance of transcending divisions and achieving inner harmony to truly understand the essence of spiritual awakening.

---

2. **यस्तु प्रतिवेदितस्वरूपः स्वात्मा साक्षिणः।**

   **सर्वभूतस्तु सर्वात्मा भूतसाक्षी प्रपश्यति॥2॥**

   **yastu prativēditasvarūpaḥ svātmā sākṣiṇaḥ |**  

   **sarvabhūtastu sarvātmā bhūtāsākṣī prapaśyati ||2||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yastu prativēdita-svarūpaḥ svātmā sākṣiṇaḥ |*  

   *sarva-bhūta-stu sarvātmā bhūta-sākṣī prapaśyati ||2||*

   **Relevance:** One who perceives the Self as the witness to all beings and sees all beings as expressions of the Self, truly understands the essence of unity.  

   This verse emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of recognizing the Self in all beings. In modern times, this perspective encourages empathy and compassion, fostering a deeper sense of unity and understanding in a diverse world.

---

3. **यस्तु योगमिच्छन्ति सदा मुक्तात्मा तत्त्वतः।**

   **न योगायास्ति किञ्चिद्यथा योगेष्वपि॥3॥**

   **yastu yogamicchanti sadā muktātmā tattvataḥ |**  

   **na yogāyāsti kiñcid yathā yogeṣv api ||3||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yastu yoga-micchanti sadā muktātma tattvataḥ |*  

   *na yogāyāsti kiñcid yathā yogeṣv api ||3||*

   **Relevance:** One who desires yoga and liberation always remains a liberated soul in essence. There is nothing lacking in true yoga practice.  

   This verse reflects the completeness inherent in genuine spiritual practice. In contemporary life, it serves as a reminder that true fulfillment and liberation are found within, rather than in external accomplishments or practices.

---

4. **यस्तु बन्धनमुक्तात्मा निराकारोऽधिकृतः।**

   **न बन्धनं त्यजत्येकं योगस्तं पश्यति॥4॥**

   **yastu bandhanamuktātma nirākāro'dhikṛtaḥ |**  

   **na bandhanaṁ tyajaty ekaṁ yogastam paśyati ||4||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yastu bandhana-muktātma nirākāraḥ adhikṛtaḥ |*  

   *na bandhanaṁ tyajaty ekaṁ yogaḥ tam paśyati ||4||*

   **Relevance:** The liberated soul who sees no form or bondage, and who does not abandon but transcends bondage, is the true yogi.  

   This teaching highlights the concept of transcending rather than rejecting the material world. In a modern context, it suggests that true spirituality involves rising above material constraints while still engaging with the world meaningfully.

---

5. **यस्तु प्राप्नोति बन्धनं तु योगसिद्धं न लभते।**

   **न बन्धनं लभते सत्त्वं योगमात्मविनिश्चयः॥5॥**

   **yastu prāpnoti bandhanaṁ tu yogasiddhaṁ na labhate |**  

   **na bandhanaṁ labhate sattvaṁ yogamātma-viniścayaḥ ||5||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yastu prāpnoti bandhanaṁ tu yoga-siddhaṁ na labhate |*  

   *na bandhanaṁ labhate sattvaṁ yoga-mātma-viniścayaḥ ||5||*

   **Relevance:** One who attains bondage through imperfect practice but does not achieve true realization, does not gain freedom. True yoga is attained by understanding the Self.  

   This verse emphasizes the importance of authentic spiritual practice and self-realization over superficial achievements. In today’s world, it reminds us that genuine spiritual growth requires a deep understanding of oneself rather than just external accomplishments.

---

### **Relevance of Chapter 11 Today:**

Chapter 11 of the **Ashtavakra Gita** explores the essence of true yoga and liberation, emphasizing the importance of seeing beyond forms and divisions to understand the underlying unity of existence. In contemporary times, where external achievements and material possessions often overshadow inner growth, this chapter serves as a valuable guide to cultivate deeper self-awareness and spiritual realization. It encourages looking beyond surface-level distinctions and recognizing the interconnectedness of all life to achieve true inner peace and liberation.

Six shlokas from **Chapter 10** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, along with their phonetic transliteration and relevance in today’s context

Six shlokas from **Chapter 10** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, along with their phonetic transliteration and relevance in today’s context:

---

### **Chapter 10 - वैराग्य (Dispassion and Detachment)**

1. **स्थितं स्वभावतो दृष्ट्वा विरक्तं पण्डितं ध्रुवम्।**

   **साधोर्वैराग्यमाकाङ्क्षन् दुःखिनो मोक्षकाङ्क्षिणः॥1॥**

   **sthitaṁ svabhāvato dṛṣṭvā viraktaṁ paṇḍitaṁ dhruvam |**  

   **sādhorvairāgyamākāṅkṣan duḥkhino mokṣakāṅkṣiṇaḥ ||1||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *sthitaṁ svabhāvato dṛṣṭvā viraktaṁ paṇḍitaṁ dhruvam |*  

   *sādhōḥ vairāgyam ākāṅkṣan duḥkhino mokṣa-kāṅkṣiṇaḥ ||1||*

   **Relevance:** Seeing a wise and dispassionate person, those who suffer and desire liberation long for that same detachment.  

   In today’s world, where people experience suffering from attachments and unfulfilled desires, this verse emphasizes that true liberation comes from following the example of the wise and dispassionate.

---

2. **निवेदितोऽस्मि सर्वत्र न किंचिदिति निःस्पृहः।**

   **न सुखे रज्यते बुद्धिर्न दुःखं हृदि गृह्यते॥2॥**

   **nivedito'smi sarvatra na kiṁciditi niḥspṛhaḥ |**  

   **na sukhe rajyate buddhirna duḥkhaṁ hṛdi gṛhyate ||2||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *nivedito'smi sarvatra na kiṁciditi niḥspṛhaḥ |*  

   *na sukhe rajyate buddhirna duḥkhaṁ hṛdi gṛhyate ||2||*

   **Relevance:** One who is detached from everything, whose mind is free from desires, neither delights in pleasure nor is troubled by pain.  

   This shloka is a reminder that detachment from material pleasure and pain brings true peace. In a modern context, it calls for mindfulness and balance in both positive and negative situations.

---

3. **यथा तथा यथाभूतं दृष्टं वा श्रुतमेव वा।**

   **सर्वं तत्तत्त्वतो ज्ञात्वा ध्यानं निरवशेषतां॥3॥**

   **yathā tathā yathābhūtaṁ dṛṣṭaṁ vā śrutameva vā |**  

   **sarvaṁ tattattvato jñātvā dhyānaṁ niravaśeṣatāṁ ||3||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yathā tathā yathābhūtaṁ dṛṣṭaṁ vā śrutaṁ eva vā |*  

   *sarvaṁ tattvato jñātvā dhyānaṁ niravaśeṣatām ||3||*

   **Relevance:** Whether it is seen or heard, realizing the truth in all experiences leads to a state of meditation and completion.  

   This verse encourages introspection, guiding individuals today to cultivate awareness and a deeper understanding of their experiences, leading to inner contentment and focus.

---

4. **कदाचित्तु कर्तृत्वं न निवेद्यं ह्यभावतः।**

   **सर्वं तु योगिनः कार्यं यस्य संकल्पतां गतम्॥4॥**

   **kadācittu kartṛtvaṁ na nivedyaṁ hyabhāvataḥ |**  

   **sarvaṁ tu yoginaḥ kāryaṁ yasya saṁkalpatāṁ gatam ||4||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *kadācittu kartṛtvaṁ na nivedyaṁ hyabhāvataḥ |*  

   *sarvaṁ tu yoginaḥ kāryaṁ yasya saṁkalpatāṁ gatam ||4||*

   **Relevance:** There is no sense of doership in the one who realizes the absence of personal identity; all actions are seen as arising naturally.  

   This teaching resonates with today's emphasis on letting go of ego-driven actions. It encourages living in alignment with nature, allowing things to flow without personal identification or attachment.

---

5. **सर्वमात्मस्वरूपेण दृश्यते योगिनः पुनः।**

   **सर्वं शून्यमिव प्राज्ञं पश्यति ज्ञप्तिचेतनम्॥5॥**

   **sarvamātmasvarūpeṇa dṛśyate yoginaḥ punaḥ |**  

   **sarvaṁ śūnyamiva prājñaṁ paśyati jñapticetanam ||5||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *sarvam ātmasvarūpeṇa dṛśyate yoginaḥ punaḥ |*  

   *sarvaṁ śūnyamiva prājñaṁ paśyati jñapticetanam ||5||*

   **Relevance:** The yogi sees everything as a reflection of the Self, while the wise view all things as empty and consciousness alone as the ultimate reality.  

   This perspective is helpful for those today who are trapped in the material world, as it encourages looking beyond appearances and realizing the underlying unity of consciousness.

---

6. **किं प्राप्तं स्वस्य शान्तस्य स्वतः किं व्यधते पुनः।**

   **आसक्ता विनिवृत्तस्य कर्तव्यानि निवर्तते॥6॥**

   **kiṁ prāptaṁ svasya śāntasya svataḥ kiṁ vyadhate punaḥ |**  

   **āsaktā vinivṛttasya kartavyāni nivartate ||6||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *kiṁ prāptaṁ svasya śāntasya svataḥ kiṁ vyadhate punaḥ |*  

   *āsaktā vinivṛttasya kartavyāni nivartate ||6||*

   **Relevance:** For the one who is peaceful within and content in the Self, what is there left to attain? For one free from desires, duties cease to bind.  

   This verse speaks to the modern individual who constantly seeks more, teaching that true peace is found in contentment with the present moment and freedom from desires.

---

### **Relevance of Chapter 10 Today:**

Chapter 10 of the **Ashtavakra Gita** focuses on the concepts of detachment and liberation from desires. In today’s fast-paced world, where people are often driven by ambition, competition, and material gains, this chapter’s teachings remind us of the futility of chasing after transient things. Instead, it calls for a deeper realization of inner peace, contentment, and the ultimate unity of consciousness. The path of detachment, as described in this chapter, offers timeless wisdom for cultivating equanimity and self-awareness amidst life's distractions.

Six shlokas from **Chapter 9** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today's context:

Six shlokas from **Chapter 9** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today's context:

---

### **Chapter 9 - निर्वेद (Dispassion)**

1. **कृते प्रतीतमात्मानं अकर्तारं निरीक्ष्य तत्।**

   **निःसंगो निष्क्रियः शांतः निर्वेदमधिगच्छति॥1॥**

   **kṛte pratītamātmānaṁ akartāraṁ nirīkṣya tat |**  

   **niḥsaṁgo niṣkriyaḥ śāntaḥ nirvedamadhigacchati ||1||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *kṛte pratītam ātmānaṁ akartāraṁ nirīkṣya tat |*  

   *niḥsaṁgo niṣkriyaḥ śāntaḥ nirvedam adhigacchati ||1||*

   **Relevance:** Having realized oneself as the non-doer, and as the ever-witnessing consciousness, one becomes free from attachments and desires, and attains peace and dispassion.  

   In today's world, where many are entangled in the pursuit of material gains and actions, this verse teaches the wisdom of non-attachment and finding peace in the recognition of the Self as beyond actions and outcomes.

---

2. **उत्तमः स्यादशांतात्मा सदा संदिग्धमानसः।**

   **यथा तथा यथाभूतं वैराग्यं समुपैति सः॥2॥**

   **uttamaḥ syād aśāntātmā sadā saṁdigdhamānasaḥ |**  

   **yathā tathā yathābhūtaṁ vairāgyaṁ samupaiti saḥ ||2||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *uttamaḥ syād aśāntātmā sadā saṁdigdha-mānasaḥ |*  

   *yathā tathā yathābhūtaṁ vairāgyaṁ samupaiti saḥ ||2||*

   **Relevance:** A person with a restless mind is always uncertain and doubtful. By being in accordance with the reality of things, such a person ultimately attains dispassion.  

   This shloka is relevant for individuals today who find themselves constantly unsettled by doubts and distractions. It reminds us to align ourselves with reality to cultivate inner peace and detachment from fluctuating emotions.

---

3. **धर्मार्थकाममोक्षेषु जीविते मरणे तथा।**

   **कस्यापि न हि वस्तूनि वैराग्यं समुपैति सः॥3॥**

   **dharmārthakāmamokṣeṣu jīvite maraṇe tathā |**  

   **kasyāpi na hi vastūni vairāgyaṁ samupaiti saḥ ||3||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *dharmārtha-kāma-mokṣeṣu jīvite maraṇe tathā |*  

   *kasyāpi na hi vastūni vairāgyaṁ samupaiti saḥ ||3||*

   **Relevance:** Whether in the pursuit of dharma (righteousness), wealth, desires, liberation, life, or death, nothing holds meaning for one who has attained dispassion.  

   This verse speaks of a state of detachment in which none of life’s pursuits or the fear of death affects a person. In today's context, it offers a profound teaching for those consumed by ambition and fear, encouraging them to embrace a more detached and peaceful approach to life.

---

4. **कदाचित्कर्तव्येषु न मुक्तिः कार्मणः सदा।**

   **आस्थितोऽस्मिन्स्थिते लोके विरक्तो न रञ्जते तदा॥4॥**

   **kadācitkartavyeṣu na muktiḥ kārmaṇaḥ sadā |**  

   **āsthito'sminsthite loke virakto na rañjate tadā ||4||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *kadācit kartavyeṣu na muktiḥ kārmaṇaḥ sadā |*  

   *āsthito'smin sthite loke virakto na rañjate tadā ||4||*

   **Relevance:** One who is absorbed in worldly duties cannot attain liberation. When detached from all worldly engagements, such a person is no longer bound by them and remains unaffected.  

   This verse teaches the importance of detachment from worldly duties, a valuable lesson for those living in today’s demanding and duty-bound societies. It invites us to reflect on the balance between fulfilling responsibilities and seeking inner liberation.

---

5. **यदा न बोधस्तदभावमात्मनः।**

   **यदा न मोहं तदवाप्तमात्मनः॥5॥**

   **yadā na bodhastadabhāvamātmanaḥ |**  

   **yadā na mohaṁ tadavāptamātmanaḥ ||5||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *yadā na bodhas tadabhāvam ātmanaḥ |*  

   *yadā na mohaṁ tadavāptam ātmanaḥ ||5||*

   **Relevance:** When one no longer identifies with the body or mind, and when delusion has been dispelled, one attains realization of the Self.  

   In a world where people often identify with their physical and mental states, this shloka teaches the importance of transcending these illusions to realize one's true nature, leading to spiritual liberation.

---

6. **नान्योऽत्र विविक्तः कश्चिन्न मुक्तिमश्नुते।**

   **नान्यत् कर्तव्यं पश्यन्तो विमुक्तो विमुक्त्ततां याति॥6॥**

   **nānyo'tra viviktaḥ kaścinna muktimaśnute |**  

   **nānyat kartavyaṁ paśyanto vimukto vimuktatāṁ yāti ||6||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *nānyo'tra viviktaḥ kaścinna muktim aśnute |*  

   *nānyat kartavyaṁ paśyanto vimukto vimuktatām yāti ||6||*

   **Relevance:** No one attains liberation by identifying with anything other than the Self. Realizing there is nothing else to do, the liberated one attains freedom.  

   This verse encourages the cessation of identification with roles, actions, and external duties to achieve freedom from the bondage of worldly existence. It offers guidance to those who seek liberation from the pressures of life.

---

### **Relevance of Chapter 9 Today:**

Chapter 9 of the **Ashtavakra Gita** addresses the nature of dispassion and detachment from worldly affairs, teaching that true liberation comes from non-attachment and the understanding of the Self as distinct from actions and the material world. In today’s society, where individuals are often consumed by desires, duties, and the endless pursuit of goals, this chapter provides a path to inner peace, urging us to detach from the fleeting nature of life’s pleasures and pains, and instead, focus on self-realization as the source of true liberation.

Four shlokas from **Chapter 8** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today's context:

Four shlokas from **Chapter 8** of the **Ashtavakra Gita** in Sanskrit, with phonetic transliteration and their relevance in today's context:

---

### **Chapter 8 - बंधमोक्ष (Bondage and Liberation)**

1. **धर्माधर्मौ सुखं दुःखं मानसानि न ते विभो।**

   **न कर्तासि न भोक्तासि मुक्त एवासि सर्वदा॥1॥**

   **dharmādharmau sukhaṁ duḥkhaṁ mānasāni na te vibho |**  

   **na kartāsi na bhoktāsi mukta evāsi sarvadā ||1||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *dharmādharmau sukham duḥkham mānasāni na te vibho |*  

   *na kartāsi na bhoktāsi mukta evāsi sarvadā ||1||*

   **Relevance:** The concepts of dharma (righteousness), adharma (unrighteousness), happiness, and suffering are all products of the mind and do not belong to you, O Lord. You are neither the doer nor the enjoyer; you are ever free.  

   This verse serves as a reminder that we are not bound by worldly actions or their outcomes, but rather by our identification with them. In today’s world, where many are burdened by expectations and responsibilities, this teaching encourages inner freedom and detachment from external roles.

---

2. **एकः शुद्धोऽसि बुद्धस्त्वं प्रेक्षकः सर्वकर्मणाम्।**

   **अकर्ताऽसि न कर्तासि मुक्त एवासि सर्वदा॥2॥**

   **ekaḥ śuddho'si buddhastvaṁ prekṣakaḥ sarvakarmaṇām |**  

   **akartā'si na kartā'si mukta evāsi sarvadā ||2||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *ekaḥ śuddho'si buddhastvam prekṣakaḥ sarvakarmaṇām |*  

   *akartā'si na kartā'si mukta evāsi sarvadā ||2||*

   **Relevance:** You are one, pure, and aware, witnessing all actions. You are not the doer, nor do you perform any actions. You are always free.  

   This shloka emphasizes self-awareness and the understanding that one is the pure witness of all actions, not the doer. It is relevant today for those who feel overwhelmed by the need to control everything. It teaches surrender and trust in the flow of life.

---

3. **सर्वमात्ममयं दृष्ट्वा न तु द्वैतं कदाचन।**

   **अन्तः शुद्धः बहिः शुद्धः शुद्धोऽसि न संशयः॥3॥**

   **sarvamātma-mayaṁ dṛṣṭvā na tu dvaitaṁ kadācana |**  

   **antaḥ śuddhaḥ bahiḥ śuddhaḥ śuddho'si na saṁśayaḥ ||3||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *sarvam ātma-mayaṁ dṛṣṭvā na tu dvaitaṁ kadācana |*  

   *antaḥ śuddhaḥ bahiḥ śuddhaḥ śuddho'si na saṁśayaḥ ||3||*

   **Relevance:** Seeing everything as pervaded by the Self, never perceive duality. You are pure within and without, there is no doubt about your purity.  

   This shloka highlights the non-dual nature of reality, encouraging us to see unity rather than separation. In today’s world, where divisions based on identity are rampant, this verse reminds us of our shared essence, promoting peace and harmony.

---

4. **बुद्धमेव निराक्रुश्य निद्रामात्रं विशन्ति ते।**

   **यस्त्वं जानाति स मुक्तः शेषास्तु विगतास्तमाः॥4॥**

   **buddhameva nirākṛśya nidrāmātraṁ viśanti te |**  

   **yastvaṁ jānāti sa muktaḥ śeṣāstu vigatāstamāḥ ||4||**

   **Phonetic:**  

   *buddhameva nirākṛśya nidrāmātram viśanti te |*  

   *yastvaṁ jānāti sa muktaḥ śeṣāstu vigatāstamāḥ ||4||*

   **Relevance:** People reject awareness and fall into sleep. But the one who knows you (the Self) is free, while the rest remain in darkness.  

   This verse speaks to the importance of awareness and self-realization. In today’s world, where distractions abound, it serves as a call to awaken to the truth of the Self and move beyond ignorance and confusion.

---

### **Relevance of Chapter 8 Today:**

Chapter 8 of the **Ashtavakra Gita** emphasizes the distinction between bondage and liberation, highlighting that liberation comes through self-realization and the understanding that one is not the doer but the eternal witness. In a world where people are often entangled in the dualities of success and failure, happiness and sorrow, the teachings of this chapter remind us of the freedom that comes with detachment and the recognition of our true nature as the ever-free, pure consciousness.