All actions on our part in sight are nothing but manifestation of working at the imperceptible level in the inner realm of our instrument of mind. And like any other well designed instrument, there exists a sense of orderliness within the mind as well. Should we allow mind unrestrained free run, it comes out with its optimum best. The question of allowing it to run one way or the other arises because mind is an instrument. The way it is driven is how it will move. If, however, for any reason, the orderliness gets compromised, mind, which otherwise is empowered to guide us pick up the most appropriate lead and make right choices, instead turns a tricksters. It then deludes us, which evidently proves self-defeating.
The obvious question now is: Why would one consciously disturb orderly function of mind and become a victim of one’s own makingIJ Nobody does it consciously. The reason too is seeded in the inner realm of mind, which often deludes us. And those unaware of the structure and chemistry of mind, invariably, remain oblivious to existence of such vulnerabilities. Consequently, one gets unmindfully carried away by the promptings of deluding impressions in mind. To make things clear, a brief look into the structure and chemistry of mind becomes imperative.
Mind being an instrument doesn’t act on its own. It primarily gets fuelled into action on the promptings of thought-seeds imprinted in mind, coming as they may as Karmic accruals carried over from past. These thought-seeds precondition our mind one way or the other, which sets the trend of our mind. Mind does also pick up impressions from the outer world, and dwells particularly on those suited to its predisposition.
The thought seeds are processed and put into action by three operative tools of mind – Buddhi (faculty of discriminate intelligence), Ahamkara (The one which wills and owns up an action), and Manasa (Sense aided functioning of mind). The three are supposed to work in tandem with each other as a coordinated whole. In this scheme of things, Buddhi is expected to dispassionately do a reality check on the thought-seeds before directing Manasa to act upon.
The irony, however, is that Ahamkara often plays a devil. It often identifies itself with the indwelling tendencies of mind and accordingly gets going. Also, it often takes tempting influences of the seeming world on their face value and then adopts them. In both cases, Ahamkara does not feel the necessity of invoking Buddhi for due diligence, and with obvious consequences.
It, thus, becomes incumbent upon us to explore, identify, acknowledge, our indwelling tendencies, and take necessary corrective initiatives. Also, be alert enough not to ignore Buddhi. Ignorant minds seldom remain conscious about this. Consequently, they remain vulnerable to pains and sufferings, often falling into the trap of stress and depression. The paradox, however, is that the victim would not realise that they have become a victim of their own making.
A man in his late forties going through a very difficult time, because of his own indiscreet moves, came seeking answer for why it happened with him. When told that his own mental tendencies have led him astray, his inflated ego did not let him take it kindly. He countered, “I am known for my refined conduct. What wrong have you found in my conduct, which makes you feel that I have an inflated egoIJ”
“Well, I have not taken you on your face value. But your astrological chart very clearly speaks of your mind trend. Remember, an astrological chart is an energy-mapping of the cosmos at the time of your birth, which reflects upon your inner frame of mind. And energy knows no bias.” I explained.
let us now look at astrological pointers to his indwelling tendencies. Five major planets occupying fiery signs speak of having very high ambitions. Fiery Mars locking horns with expansive Jupiter points to his inflated ego, which limits him to the self-defined premise, not open to look beyond. Venus marginalised by the Sun, and also placed adverse to erratic Rahu, speaks of being emotionally fragile, whereby he will put in his heart while pursuing his cherished desire. And if ever he fails, he may fall into guilt trap. Mars conjunct its dire enemy Saturn in the 3rd house identified with basal instincts, also placed adverse to Neptune, speaks of a deluded mind keen to blindly pursue his whims and fancies. Having failed because of his own indiscretions, he has now gone into depression, calling for medical intervention.
The writer is an astrologer, vastu consultant and spiritual counsellor. Write to him at G-5, Basement, Jungpura Extension, New Delhi 14 Tel: 9818037273/ 24310031 Email: pioneerqueries@bharatastro.com Website: www.bharatastro.com