MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 10. PURE MIND & IMPURE MIND - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries & Control

THE MIND: ITS MYSTERIES AND CONTROL - 10. PURE MIND & IMPURE MIND - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries & Control - HQ Full Book.

Introduction: The Dual Nature of the Mind
In Chapter 10, Swami Sivananda explores the duality of the human mind, dividing it into two distinct aspects: the Pure Mind and the Impure Mind. This chapter offers profound insights into the interplay of these two facets and provides practical guidance for transcending the limitations of the impure mind to achieve spiritual liberation. The mind, according to Vedantic philosophy, is not a monolithic entity. Instead, it is a complex structure encompassing thoughts, emotions, intentions, and ego. The Pure Mind, free from worldly desires and impurities, is aligned with spiritual pursuits. Conversely, the Impure Mind, dominated by passions and instincts, anchors the individual to the material world.
The Two Kinds of Mind
Swami Sivananda delineates the mind into two categories:

1. Pure Mind:
   • Associated with higher aspirations, noble intentions, and selfless love.
   • It is tranquil, luminous, and connected to the divine.
   • Leads to spiritual growth and realization of the Atman (Self).
2. Impure Mind:
   • Driven by base desires, passions, and ego.
   • It is restless, turbulent, and attached to sensory pleasures.
   • Fosters ignorance, delusion, and spiritual stagnation.

To ascend spiritually, one must integrate and purify these two aspects, dissolving the impure tendencies to cultivate a singular, refined Pure Mind.
Characteristics of the Pure Mind
The Pure Mind is the seat of higher faculties and divine qualities, including:

• Noble Aspirations: It aspires toward truth, goodness, and beauty.
• Spiritual Inclinations: Seeks solitude, silence, and the company of enlightened beings.
• Divine Love and Devotion: It exudes unselfish love, compassion, and devotion to God.
• Elevated Ideals: Inspires philosophical discussions, study of scriptures, and profound meditation.

Through its inherent purity, the Pure Mind becomes a mirror reflecting the divine reality of Brahman, the Supreme Cosmic Spirit.
Characteristics of the Impure Mind
In contrast, the Impure Mind is mired in the material and sensual realms, manifesting as:

• Restlessness: Wanders ceaselessly between objects of desire, lacking stability.
• Attachment to Sensual Pleasures: Pursues temporary joys of the senses, leading to dissatisfaction.
• Self-Centeredness: Rooted in selfishness, it clouds the intellect and perpetuates ignorance.
• Delusion and Fear: Generates false perceptions and anxieties, veiling the truth of existence.

The Impure Mind thrives on the identification of the Self with the physical body, leading to endless cycles of desire and dissatisfaction.
The Role of Ego, Intellect, and Intention
Swami Sivananda emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind, ego, and intellect:

• Ego: The impure ego identifies with the body, fostering separation and duality.
• Intellect: The impure intellect rationalizes worldly attachments, while the pure intellect discerns truth.
• Intention: Pure intentions arise from thoughts of God and unity, while impure intentions are rooted in selfishness.

Together, the impure ego, intellect, and intentions form a vicious cycle, perpetuating the delusions of the Impure Mind. Breaking free from this cycle is essential for spiritual evolution.
Purification of the Mind
The purification process involves cleansing the mind of its impurities and aligning it with divine aspirations. Swami Sivananda outlines several practical methods:

1. Selfless Action (Karma Yoga): Engage in...