Sri Ashtavakra says: This is
to be done and this should not be done, such confusions have never ended for
anybody. Knowing this, be indifferent (neutral), be ascetic and don't follow
such (ritualistic) rules. 1
O Son! Blessed and rare are
those who observe the useless efforts of others and thereby extinguish their
lust for life, luxuries and good food. 2
All this is impermanent and
is surrounded by the three types of pain (body, luck and money). It is without
any essence, contemptible and is to be abandoned. Only after deciding it
firmly, peace is attained. 3
When was that age or time
when there are no confusions for a person. So become indifferent to your doubts
and attain happiness without much effort. 4
Having seen the difference
of opinions among the great sages, saints and yogis, who will not get detached
and attain peace. 5
Knowing consciousness
directly, a guru, who is unattached and neutral, will definitely lead others
out of the cycle of birth and death. 6
See the change in nature of
elements as the change in quantity of finer (subtle) entities. After seeing
this, you would be free from bondage immediately and would be established in
your very nature. 7
This detachment will lead to
rejection of desires and you as consciousness will remain as you are. 8