The Yoga Vashishtha Maharamayana of Valmiki, translated by Vihari Lala Mitra, is a syncretic philosophical text of Hinduism, with a philosophical foundation similar to Advaita Vedanta. The complete text by Valmiki, consists of over 29,000 verses. Central Message and Key Themes The Yoga Vasistha expounds the principles of Maya and Brahman, emphasizing non-duality. It discusses consciousness, cosmology, the nature of the universe, and the non-dual nature of existence. The self is the foundation for all that is in dynamism.

The Yoga Vasistha is considered an encyclopedia of Advaita Vedanta. Traditional belief holds that reading it leads to spiritual liberation. Vasistha puts forth the question of the vanity of the world, which is shown to a great length from the state of all living existences, the instincts, inclinations, and passions of men, and the nature of their aims, with discussions about destiny, necessity, activity, and the state of the soul and spirit1. The second part embraces various directions for the union of the individual with the universal consciousness, subjective objective truth, and the common topics of yoga philosophy. Vasistha says that the four sentinels posted at the gate of Moksha are Shanti (quiescence of mind or sweet patience), Vichara (the inquiry after Atman), Santosha (contentment of mind), and Sadhu-Sanga (association with the wise).

Non-duality (Advaita): The text expounds the principles of Maya and Brahman, emphasizing non-duality. Consciousness and Reality: It discusses consciousness, cosmology, the nature of the universe, and the non-dual nature of existence. The self is the foundation for all that is in dynamism. Liberation (Moksha): Describes the search for liberation through self-effort and meditation. Action and Wisdom: The underlying philosophy balances action and wisdom, advocating for their integration. Transitoriness: The text reiterates the fundamental human problem of fixation on permanence.

The Yoga Vasistha is a historically popular and influential text. The traditional belief is that reading this book leads to spiritual liberation. It is revered for its wisdom and is considered an encyclopedia of Advaita Vedanta. The text's emphasis on self-effort, inquiry, and the integration of action and wisdom has likely influenced spiritual seekers and philosophical thought within Hinduism. The Yoga Vasistha uses stories and anecdotes to illustrate its ideas, making complex philosophical concepts accessible. Its teachings on overcoming delusion (Moha) and ignorance (Avidya) to achieve self-knowledge have likely provided guidance for individuals seeking personal and spiritual growth.