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 actions without attachment to results.
2. Meditation: Focus the mind on the divine, cultivating inner stillness.
3. Mantra Repetition: Chant sacred names with devotion and sincerity.
4. Company of the Wise (Satsang): Seek the guidance of enlightened teachers and holy texts.
5. Control of Senses (Dama): Discipline the senses to reduce distractions.
6. Study of Scriptures: Immerse in spiritual knowledge to sharpen discernment.

The analogy of a dirty mirror illustrates the importance of purification. Just as a clean mirror reflects light clearly, a purified mind reveals the divine presence within.
Self-Inquiry and the Pure Mind
A sharp, subtle, and one-pointed Pure Mind is indispensable for Atma-Self-Inquiry. This practice involves:

• Discrimination: Distinguishing between the real (Self) and the unreal (world).
• Meditation: Contemplating the nature of the Self to dissolve ignorance.
• Liberation from Sensuality: Avoiding indulgence in sensual pleasures to maintain clarity and focus.

The Pure Mind, unburdened by selfish desires, becomes a powerful instrument for realizing the Atman, leading to liberation and eternal bliss.
The Battle Between Pure and Impure Mind
Swami Sivananda vividly portrays the inner conflict between the Pure and Impure Mind:

• Impure Mind as the Enemy: The Impure Mind, with its cravings and delusions, is the primary obstacle to spiritual growth.
• Victory Through the Pure Mind: By cultivating purity and higher aspirations, one can conquer the lower tendencies of the Impure Mind.
• Unity Through Annihilation: Destroying the impure, instinctive mind through the power of the Pure Mind brings inner unity and peace.

This battle requires vigilance, effort, and unwavering commitment to spiritual practice.
Tools for Mind Purification
Swami Sivananda offers specific tools to aid in purifying the mind:

• Virtuous Actions: Acts of charity, compassion, and truthfulness uplift the mind.
• Pilgrimage: Visiting sacred places fosters spiritual reflection.
• Discipline: Cultivating habits of restraint and self-control strengthens the mind.
• Devotion and Surrender: Surrendering to God dissolves ego and impurities.

These practices systematically refine the mind, making it a suitable vessel for divine realization.
The Fruits of Purification
When the mind is purified, several transformations occur:

• Clarity: The Pure Mind perceives reality without distortion.
• Sensitivity: A purified mind becomes more attuned to subtle spiritual truths.
• Inner Peace: The restless tendencies of the Impure Mind are replaced by calmness and equanimity.
• Divine Realization: The Pure Mind merges with the Absolute, experiencing eternal bliss.

The journey of purification is arduous but yields unparalleled rewards, culminating in liberation from the cycles of birth and death.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Goal
The chapter concludes with a call to action: slay the Impure Mind and cultivate the Pure Mind. Through consistent practice, self-discipline, and devotion, the seeker can transcend the limitations of the lower mind and realize the infinite potential of the higher Self. As Swami Sivananda emphasizes, the purification of the mind is not merely a prerequisite for spiritual growth—it is the essence of the spiritual journey itself. By transforming the mind into an instrument of divine will, one attains eternal peace, bliss, and unity with Brahman, the Supreme Cosmic Spirit.  

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