Manas Buddhi Chitta Ahamkara - Part 9

DVESHA

2.8 (Dukha Anushayi Dvesha)

Aversion (dvesha) is a modification that results from misery associated with some memory, whereby the three modifications of aversion, pain, and the memory of the object or experience are then associated with one another.

• dukha = pain, sorrow, suffering
• anushayi = sequential attraction to, closely following, secondary accompaniment, resting on

• dvesha = aversion or pushing away, hatred

Aversion is a form of attachment: Aversion is actually another form of attachment. It is what we are trying to mentally push away, but that pushing away is also a form of connection, just as much as attachment is a way of pulling towards us.

Aversion is a natural part of the mind: Dvesha actually seems to be a natural part of the universal process, as we build a precarious mental balance between the many attractions and the many aversions.

Aversion is both surface and subtle: It is important to remember that aversion can be very subtle, and that this subtlety will be revealed with deeper meditation. However, it is also quite visible on the more surface level as well. It is here, on the surface that we can begin the process of witnessing our aversions.

Aversion can be easier to notice than attachment: In relation to individual thought patterns, aversion is one of the two colorings that is most easily seen, along with attachment. Actually, aversion can be easier to notice than attachment, in that there is often an emotional response, such as anger, irritation, or anxiety.

Such an emotional response may be mild or strong. Because of these kinds of responses, which animate through the sensations of the physical body, this aspect of witnessing can be very easily done right in the middle of daily life, along with meditation time.

Aversion is nothing but negative attachment. The sequence of aversion is the second wave exactly as explained in RAAGA post. Out of some experience with someone, with some object, you get a bad/ not so good experience and the memory of such experience results in the second wave of hatred/ aversion towards such persons/ objects in future.

Practical exercise

Never mind our desires, there are also plenty of things we don’t want…

“I don’t want to be rushed”

“I don’t want to eat this…do that…see him/her…”

Dvesha can also be interpreted as an avoidance of something, or feeling of dislike towards something. The ego is usually involved in this choice.

For instance…When we are challenged out of our comfort zone by a pose in our practice, we may encounter this sensation of dislike. Uncomfortable as it may be, sometimes a lesson lies in taking that step that takes out to a new ground, out of your comfort zone… It’s a great opportunity for growth.

Here is something to think about:

Ø  If you usually WANT to challenge yourself, what would it feel like to take a step back?

Ø  If you usually DON’T WANT to challenge yourself, what would happen if you did?

“We perceive as good that which brings pleasure; we perceive as bad that which brings pain”

To step out of a state of aversion is to step out of your ego’s comfort zone. Being pushed around by the ego (I want, I don’t want) is a vicious, never ending cycle, which creates suffering.

You are in power of breaking the cycle. Identify one habit, and change it. You will come to see that your True identity is not defined by your likes and dislikes.

Love.