Inner meaning of Ruchika Muni

Question

What is the deeper meaning of Ruchika Muni in this story?

Answer

Ruchika Muni symbolizes the truth that within us there exist seven koshas (sheaths or layers of being). Now, what gives existence to these seven koshas? It is the Atman — the Self.

The Atman is of the nature of light, of illumination. The word Ruchika comes from the root “rich”, which means “to shine” or “to illuminate.” So, Ruchika literally means “the one who radiates light.”

Thus, the Atman — the inner light — is what illuminates and gives life to this body in which the seven koshas exist.

So when the story speaks of Ruchika Muni and his sons, it is symbolically referring to this:
the seven koshas are the sons of Ruchika, meaning that they exist only because of the presence of the illuminating Self.

When the Self shines within, the body and its seven sheaths are alive and active. The moment that inner light withdraws, all these layers lose their existence.

Therefore, Ruchika Muni represents the light of consciousness, and his “sons” represent the seven sheaths of existence sustained by that light.