Seeking Answers

The best way to learn is to ask questions. The second best is to listen to what others are asking. The magic is in the listening.

Inner meaning of Ruchika Muni
Ramayana Arpan Gupta Ramayana Arpan Gupta

Inner meaning of Ruchika Muni

This Q&A explains the symbolic meaning of Ruchika Muni. “Ruchika” comes from the root rich, meaning “to illuminate.” It signifies the Self — the light of consciousness that enlivens the seven koshas or sheaths within the body. The seven koshas are described as his “sons,” existing only through the presence of this inner light.

Read More
Inner meaning of Kshatriya Becoming a Brahmin
Ramayana Arpan Gupta Ramayana Arpan Gupta

Inner meaning of Kshatriya Becoming a Brahmin

This Q&A explores the transformation of Vishwamitra from a Rajarshi (royal sage) to a Brahmarshi. The discussion reveals that the Kshatriya symbolizes outward engagement, while the Brahmin represents inner realization. The path from one to the other is a process — an ascent from governing the outer world to mastering the inner self through purification of the mind.

Read More
Who Is Kadru and What Do the Nāgas Symbolize?
Ramayana Arpan Gupta Ramayana Arpan Gupta

Who Is Kadru and What Do the Nāgas Symbolize?

A Q&A explaining the symbolic meaning of Kadru and the Nāgas: Kadru represents our tamasic or negative nature, and the Nāgas are the negative tendencies buried deep in the subconscious mind — not physical snakes. The Purāṇas use these symbols to describe inner states of consciousness, not outer worlds.

Read More
Sumantra, Vasiṣṭha & Viśvāmitra: What Dasharatha’s Court Means Inside Us
Ramayana, Basic Concepts Arpan Gupta Ramayana, Basic Concepts Arpan Gupta

Sumantra, Vasiṣṭha & Viśvāmitra: What Dasharatha’s Court Means Inside Us

A crisp Q&A decoding key symbols: Sumantra as excellent inner counsel, Vasiṣṭha as upward (vertical) evolution, Viśvāmitra as outward (horizontal) expansion, Romapāda as calm unexcitedness, Ṛṣyaśṛṅga as inner prompting—and Aśvamedha as the discipline that purifies the mind so Rama (Self-knowledge) can descend within.

Read More
Ram’s “Helpers,” Vashishtha’s Sons & The True Meaning of Karma
Ramayana Arpan Gupta Ramayana Arpan Gupta

Ram’s “Helpers,” Vashishtha’s Sons & The True Meaning of Karma

A Q&A on two symbolic points from the Ramayana: Who are Ram’s “helpers,” and what is the real meaning of karma? The “helpers” represent the pure mind and its virtues — the inner powers that destroy defects. Ram’s bow is his pure mind; his arrows are virtues like service and surrender. The discussion also explains how pure thought forms the foundation of all right action: when thinking is pure, all karma becomes selfless and divine.

Read More