The Depth of Action: Understanding Completion in the Self

In the profound words of Adi Shankara, "He who is established in the Self has nothing to gain by action." This statement invites us to explore the intricate relationship between our sense of self and the actions we undertake in the world. At its core, it suggests that true fulfillment and completeness arise from a deep understanding of our own nature, rather than from external achievements or accolades. This insight is not merely philosophical; it holds the potential to transform our approach to life and the motivations behind our actions.

As we delve deeper into this quote, we encounter the essence of what it means to be "established in the Self." This state of being transcends the dualities of gain and loss, success and failure, revealing a profound inner peace that is untouched by the fluctuations of the external world. In a society that often equates worth with productivity, Shankara's teaching serves as a gentle reminder that our true value lies not in what we do, but in who we are. This understanding can lead to a radical shift in how we perceive our lives and the actions we take.

The image / the metaphor

To unpack the imagery within Shankara's quote, we must first consider the term "established." This word evokes a sense of grounding, stability, and permanence. It suggests a state of being that is unwavering, much like a tree with deep roots that withstands the storms of life. The phrase "nothing to gain by action" further emphasizes this idea, implying that when one is rooted in the Self, the motivations for action shift from a desire for gain to a natural expression of one's true nature.

Delving deeper into the metaphor, we can see that the actions we take in the world often stem from a place of lack or desire. When we are not established in our true selves, we may engage in actions driven by fear, ambition, or the need for validation. However, when we recognize our inherent completeness, our actions become a reflection of our inner state rather than a means to an end. This shift transforms our relationship with action itself, allowing it to become a spontaneous expression of our being rather than a calculated effort to achieve something outside of ourselves.

In the speaker's tradition

Adi Shankara's teachings are deeply rooted in the Vedantic tradition, which emphasizes the realization of the Self as the ultimate goal of human existence. Concepts such as *dharma*, the moral and ethical duties one must fulfill, and *kenosis*, the self-emptying that leads to spiritual awakening, resonate with the essence of Shankara's statement. In this context, the realization of the Self is not an escape from action but rather a transformation of the motivation behind it, aligning one's actions with the greater cosmic order.

In the *Vivekachudamani*, a seminal text attributed to Shankara, the exploration of the nature of reality and the Self is central. The text guides seekers through the process of discernment (*viveka*), helping them to differentiate between the transient and the eternal. This discernment is crucial for understanding that while actions may still occur, they are no longer driven by the ego's desires but are instead expressions of the deeper truth of one's being. Thus, the teachings of Shankara invite us to engage with life from a place of fullness rather than lack.

Living the teaching

Consider a modern scenario where this teaching can be applied: a professional striving for recognition in their career. Often, the pursuit of accolades can lead to stress and dissatisfaction, as the individual equates their worth with their achievements. However, if one were to embrace Shankara's insight and cultivate a sense of being established in the Self, the motivation for work could shift. Rather than seeking validation, the individual might find joy in the process of creation and contribution, leading to a more fulfilling and less anxiety-ridden experience.

Another application of this teaching can be found in personal relationships. Imagine a situation where one partner feels unappreciated and seeks validation through acts of service or sacrifice. By recognizing their inherent completeness and establishing themselves in the Self, they can approach the relationship from a place of abundance rather than neediness. This shift allows for a more authentic connection, where actions are motivated by love and generosity rather than a desire for approval, ultimately enriching the relationship.

A reflection

As we contemplate the depth of Shankara's quote, we are invited to reflect on our own lives: In what ways do we seek validation through our actions? Are we driven by a sense of lack, or can we find fulfillment in simply being? This contemplation encourages us to explore the possibility of living from a place of inner completeness, allowing our actions to flow naturally from our true selves. How might our lives change if we embraced the idea that we have nothing to gain by action, but rather everything to express?