Chapter 13, Verse 26

Original Sanskrit verse

Transliteration

English translation

Others, too, who do not know thus, worship, having heard of It from others; they, too, cross beyond death, regarding what they have heard as the supreme refuge.

— Swami Sivananda

Commentary

The three paths; viz.; the Yoga of meditation; the Yoga of knowledge; and the Yoga of action to attain the knowledge of the Self were described in the previous verse. In this verse the Yoga of worship is described. Some who are ignorant of the methods described in the previous verse listen to the teachings of the spiritual preceptors regarding this great Truth or the Self with intense and unshakable faith; solely depending upon the authority of others instructions; and through constant remembrance and contemplation of them attain immortality. They are devoted to their preceptor. Some study the books written by realised seers; stick with great faith to the teachings contained therein and live according to them. They also overcome death. Whichever path one follows; one eventually attains the knowledge of the Self and final liberation from birth and death; -- salvation (Moksha). There are several paths to suit aspirants of different temperaments and eipments. Freeing oneself from ignorance with its effects through the knowledge of the Self; is crossing the Samsara or attaining immortality or overcoming death or obtaining release or salvation.

Commentary by Swami Sivananda