The teachings of Sage Vashishtha is the most beautiful spiritual guide to us. Here Sage Vashishtha is seen instructing the young Prince Ramachandra and his brothers about 'Knowledge of the Self'', the true nature of existence, and the illusory nature of the world. When Prince Ramachandra went round the country in order to see the condition of the people, he was so disappointed, depressed, and reluctant to be the King of Ayodhya succeeding his father Dasharatha. He saw poverty, hunger, and sickness of the people and was worried and depressed. Sage Vashisththa happens to visit the king at this time and the King expressed his anxiety about the condition of the prince and requested him to advise him. Thus, here we find the learned sage instructing about 'Atmajnyan', i.e., Knowledge of the Self, to the Prince.
However, it is really difficult for us to understand these teachings. There is some sort of negative attitude bot the world and normally people do not want to develop this attitude. Normally, people want to enjoy life. The Sage is very clear about this illusory nature of this world and says that only fools relish the sensuous world. Ultimately, one is disillusioned for the sensuous world is insatiable and disappointing. Hence, the advise is to withdraw the senses and establish oneself in one's own inner self, Atman.
The Learned Sage Vashishtha advise the young prince to realize the true nature of the world and just do his duty without bothering about the fruits of action. It is the same advise given by Lord Sri Krishna to Arjuna to just do his ordained duties and never anticipate anything in return. It is so important to us to realize these teachings. It is clearly stated here that one should think that this world is illusory and even the physical constituents of our body mind nd intellect are only accessories. One should realize that everything here is brahmn. sarvam khaluvidam brahmaa.
One should always think: 'I am brahman, the imperishable, immutable, unborn, eternal and immortal.'
