Meditation is the divine ladder that helps the aspirant to rise to the abode of immortal bliss of Brahman. – Swami Sivananda
The world’s most extraordinary book of practical philosophical idealism of India is Yoga Vasishtha. The system of thought that is presented in this book is a highly valuable contribution not only to Indian philosophical thought, but to the philosophical thought of the World at large.
Those whose minds are turned from this World, who have become indifferent towards the objects of this World and who are thirsting for Liberation, will benefit from study of this precious book. They will find this book filled with vast knowledge, plus, practical spiritual instructions for guidance in their daily life.
The Yoga Vasishtha deals with the Union of the individual soul with the Supreme Soul amidst all the trials and tribulations of life. It prescribes various directions for the union of the Jivatman and Paramatman.
Moksha, according to Yoga Vasishtha, is the attainment of the essence of the bliss of Brahman through knowledge of the higher Self. It is freedom from births and deaths. It is the immaculate and imperishable seat of Brahman wherein there are neither Sankalpas, nor Vasanas. The mind attains its quiescence here.
Extinction of Sankalpas alone is Moksha. All the pleasures of the World are a mere drop when compared to the infinite bliss of Moksha.
Destroy the Vasanas and Sankalpas. Kill egoism. Annihilate the mind. Equip yourself with the “Four Means”. Meditate on the pure, immortal, all pervading higher Self, the Atman.
A Jivanmukta, the realized Soul then roams about happily. The Jivanmukta works for the well being of the World. The Jivanmukta is free from desires, egoism and greed. The Jivanmukta is in solitude, despite working in the busiest part of a city.
If you attain knowledge of the Self, through Brahma Jnana, you will be freed from the trammels of births and deaths. All your doubts will vanish and all Karmas will perish. It is through your own efforts that the immortal, all blissful Brahmic seat will appear.
Inpart from the DLS article by Swami Sivananda – The Yoga Vasishtha