Antahsthameva Yajjnanam - The Essence of Knowledge

Meaning of Antaḥsthameva Yajjñānaṁ Jñānādapi Ca

The wisdom that resides within us, which transcends ordinary or external knowledge, is the true essence of this entire universe. It is this inner wisdom that is worshipped by great men and wise men.

Word by word

Commentary

One possible philosophical reading of this untraced verse points toward the “Pratyagātman,” or inner self. On that reading, it suggests that while external knowledge (Apara Vidya) is useful for the world, the "Sara" or the essence of the entire existence (Samsara) is the knowledge that is "Antahstham" (internal). It is described as being "higher than knowledge" itself, which may be understood as a realization beyond merely conceptual knowledge. Saints and seekers value this inner clarity above all transitory gains, as it provides the ultimate stability in a changing world. Under this interpretation, the second quarter states a deliberate paradox — jñānād api ca yat param, higher than knowledge itself — which the tradition resolves by separating what is known from the one who knows: no addition to the first can reach the second. The closing verb is also chosen with care. It is upāsyate, is attended upon, not jñāyate, is known. What the verse describes is a practice kept up, not a thing acquired. The source of this verse has not yet been traced.

Original Post