PARABRAHMA SUTRAS (164-166)

164. Simaanuhyameva anantam na madhye yathaakaashah.

Translation: The word infinite denotes the unimaginable nature in the boundaries only and not in the portion between the boundaries as in the case of space.

Explanation: The infinite space cannot be compared to the unimaginable God. In the case of space, only the boundaries are unimaginable, where as the form of space is well understood as vacuum or subtle inert energy. In the case of God, both the form and boundaries are unimaginable. Hence, the word infinite cannot project the real nature of God. An imaginable item like space is said to be infinite since its boundaries are unimaginable and not the portion between the boundaries. In the case of God, not only the boundaries but also the portion between the boundaries is unimaginable. The word infinite shows only partial unimaginable nature, which is limited to the boundaries only.

165. Bhaktirmanasaa gunaanaam dhiyaa tattvasya jnaanamekam paramabhijnaane.

Translation: Both knowledge and devotion are the same worship of qualities and nature of God through mind and intelligence respectively. But the knowledge of God is helpful to find out the correct address of God in the medium.

Explanation: Shankara stated in His commentary that devotion is the knowledge of God. He did not differentiate knowledge and devotion of God. Knowledge is thinking the nature of God through discussions involving intelligence. Devotion is thinking the qualities of God through mind. Both are different forms of the same worship and hence the difference disappears. On knowing the details of God (Knowledge), the interest on God (devotion) develops simultaneously and hence knowledge and devotion are inseparable forms of the same worship of God. Devotion and knowledge do not have any difference, once God is correctly detected. For detection of God only knowledge helps and not the devotion.

166. Sevaakarma phalajanakam tayorjaatam.

Translation: The work or service is born out of knowledge and devotion, which alone is the source of fruit.

Explanation: Worship of God through work is called as seva or karmayoga, which is consequence of knowledge and devotion. In fact, this consequence is very important and is the source of grace of God. The knowledge and devotion have no value if the consequence is not seen. This consequence involves the sacrifice of work and fruit of work. This consequence alone can yield the fruit through the grace of God.