What are the symptoms of Brahman-realisation according to Sankaracharya?

According to Adi Shankaracharya, a renowned Indian philosopher and theologian from the 8th century, Brahman-realization, or the direct realization of the ultimate reality, is characterized by specific symptoms that signify the attainment of spiritual liberation (Moksha). These symptoms are outlined in his works, notably in the Vivekachudamani, a spiritual text that elucidates the nature of Self-realization. Here are the key symptoms of Brahman-realization as per Sankaracharya:

1. Absence of Egoism (Ahamkara):
   • Loss of the sense of "I" or ego, leading to an understanding that one's true nature is pure consciousness (Atman) and not the physical body or mind.
   • The ego, which is the root cause of ignorance and suffering, is completely annihilated upon Brahman-realization (Vivekachudamani, Verse 244).
2. Equanimity (Upeksa):
   • Attainment of perfect equanimity and composure in all situations, regardless of pleasure or pain, gain or loss, honor or dishonor.
   • The realized soul remains undisturbed by the vicissitudes of life, as they are no longer identified with the body or mind (Vivekachudamani, Verse 250).
3. Detachment (Vairagya):
   • Complete detachment from worldly objects, desires, and attachments, as they are seen as mere illusions (Maya) that do not truly exist.
   • The realized soul finds no joy or sorrow in worldly affairs, as they have discovered the eternal bliss within (Vivekachudamani, Verse 251).
4. Discrimination (Viveka):
   • Perfect discrimination between the real and the unreal, the eternal and the transient, the Self (Atman) and the non-Self (Anatman).
   • The realized soul can effortlessly distinguish between what is truly worth pursuing and what is not, leading to a life of wisdom and discernment (Vivekachudamani, Verse 252).
5. Absence of Cravings (Vairagya):
   • Complete absence of cravings for sensual pleasures, wealth, fame, or power, as they are seen as obstacles to spiritual growth.
   • The realized soul is content and satisfied with their own Self, finding no need to seek fulfillment elsewhere (Vivekachudamani, Verse 253).
6. Freedom from Fear (Abhaya):
   • Complete freedom from fear of death, disease, old age, or any other worldly phenomena, as the realized soul understands that they are eternal and indestructible.
   • The fear of the unknown is also dispelled, as the realized soul has direct knowledge of the ultimate reality (Vivekachudamani, Verse 254).
7. Bliss (Ananda):
   • Constant bliss and joy, regardless of external circumstances, as the realized soul is always connected to the source of all happiness within.
   • This bliss is not dependent on external factors and is experienced as an ever-present, natural state (Vivekachudamani, Verse 255).
8. Love and Compassion (Prema):
• Unconditional love and compassion towards all beings, as the realized soul sees the same consciousness (Atman) in everyone.
• This love is not based on personal gain or expectation but is a natural expression of the realized soul's true nature (Vivekachudamani, Verse 256).
  
  Source : Mike Adams : https://brightu.ai