MIND MYSTERIES & CONTROL - 6. THE 3 QUALITIES OF MIND: Purity, Restlessness & Inertia - Sri Swami Sivananda - The Mind: Its Mysteries & Cont

THE MIND: ITS MYSTERIES AND CONTROL - 6. 3 QUALITIES OF MIND - Purity, Restlessness and Inertia - Sri Swami Sivananda - Complete Works with FULL English Translation of all Sanskrit Words.

Swami Sivananda’s Chapter 6, “The Three Qualities,” delves into the fundamental attributes of the mind—Sattva (Purity), Rajas (Restlessness), and Tamas (Inertia)—explaining their influence on thought patterns and behavior. These qualities, also known as Gunas, are the building blocks of the mind and dictate the nature of mental activity, inclinations, and tendencies. Understanding these qualities is pivotal in gaining mastery over the mind and progressing on the spiritual path.
Qualities and Thought Waves
The mind, governed by the interplay of the three Gunas, produces corresponding thought waves:

1. Sattva (Purity): Gives rise to thoughts of peace, calmness, and spiritual aspiration.
2. Rajas (Restlessness): Manifests as terror, agitation, and desire-driven activities.
3. Tamas (Inertia): Leads to ignorance, delusion, laziness, and carelessness.

These thought waves determine the mind’s stability and its ability to align with higher spiritual truths. Sivananda emphasizes that the dominance of Sattva leads to inner peace and harmony, while Rajas and Tamas pull the individual toward worldly entanglements and ignorance.
Characteristics of Sattva (Purity)
Sattva represents light, illumination, and purity. It is the force that uplifts and liberates. A mind dominated by Sattva is characterized by:

• Steadiness: A pure mind remains calm, stable, and focused.
• Inner Delight: Such a mind finds joy within and does not seek external stimulation.
• Consistency: It forms lasting friendships, sticks to virtuous habits, and engages in sustained spiritual practice.
• Contentment with Simplicity: Sattvic individuals are satisfied with simple, wholesome food and a minimalistic lifestyle.
• Creativity and Inspiration: During moments of Sattva, the mind becomes a conduit for divine inspiration, producing poetry, art, or profound insights.

In its purest state, the Sattvic mind reflects the divine source, akin to a clean mirror reflecting the truth. This state of inner illumination fosters Brahmavichara, the inquiry into Brahman—the ultimate reality. A Sattvic mind naturally discerns between the real and the unreal, leading the seeker toward liberation.
Characteristics of Rajas (Restlessness)
Rajas is the force of dynamism, passion, and activity. While it can drive progress, unchecked Rajas often leads to restlessness and entanglement in worldly desires. Key traits of a Rajasic mind include:

• Desire for Variety: A restless mind constantly craves new experiences, relationships, and material possessions.
• Attachment to Sensory Stimulation: Rajasic individuals seek external excitement and cannot remain idle or content.
• Tendency to Criticize: Such minds often dwell on the flaws of others, fostering negativity and disrupting inner peace.
• Fickle Relationships: Rajasic tendencies result in fleeting connections and a lack of deep, enduring bonds.

Sivananda advises countering Rajas through solitude, silence, and self-discipline. Avoiding unnecessary company and distractions is crucial for calming a restless mind. The mind must be trained to seek contentment within and refrain from perpetuating division and conflict. Interestingly, Sivananda highlights that intense restlessness can, when redirected, transform into spiritual zeal. For example, Ratnakar, a dacoit, became the sage Valmiki, illustrating how even Rajasic energy can propel an individual toward spiritual greatness when harnessed correctly.
Characteristics of Tamas (Inertia)