Chapter 23 presents a philosophical framework for understanding suffering. It teaches that the soul is in reality 'beyond the three gunas' and its true nature is 'Existence-Consciousness-Bliss (Sacchidananda).' The problem arises when the soul, 'deluded by Maya,' forgets this true nature and mistakenly identifies with the physical body. This leads to pride and the false belief of being the 'doer' and 'enjoyer,' which in turn causes a 'succession of calamities' and distress. As explicitly stated in Chapter 23, the singular remedy for this condition is 'Loving devotion (Bhakti Yoga) at the feet of the Guru.' This path is presented as the only way to calm the calamities and escape the cycle of delusion.
Based on Chapter 23, what is the philosophical explanation for the soul's suffering and what is the prescribed remedy?
📖 Chapter 23