Can you explain the concept of Maya or Avidya using the examples from the source text?

๐Ÿ“– Chapter 50

The text in Chapter 50 uses several vivid analogies to explain Avidya, which is also called Maya or worldly illusion. This concept refers to a form of ignorance that makes a non-existent reality appear real. One example given is how a rope in dim light can be mistaken for a snake. Similarly, the text mentions how shimmering mother-of-pearl can create the illusion of silver within a shell, or how sun's rays can create a 'mirage' in the distance. Another powerful example is whirling a lit firebrand (kolit) in a circle, which creates the illusion of a continuous 'circle of fire' (Agni-kankan), even though the fire is just a single point. As Chapter 50 explains, this is the play of Maya, which deludes even the wise into perceiving a world that, like the fire-circle, is ultimately an illusion.


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