The second sense is the auditory sense, which corresponds to the “air” element, and its subject is “word.” As human beings, we naturally gravitate toward sweet, pleasant words that soothe our ears, while we tend to reject anything harsh or unpleasant. However, the impact of unpleasant words can trigger the fire element within us, sparking the flames of anger and causing inner turmoil. To avoid this, one must cultivate the ability to approach both sweet and bitter words with an objective mindset. By doing so, one can prevent the mind from being clouded by emotional reactions and ensure that consciousness remains unaffected by the impressions left by words.
The third sense is the olfactory sense, associated with the “earth” element, and its subject is “smell.” Our noses are sensitive to a wide array of scents, and we tend to avoid foul odors. However, just as with the auditory sense, it’s important not to let our responses to smells — whether positive or negative — take control. We must engage our intellect to remain objective, refraining from becoming overly attached to the sensations caused by different smells. This allows us to maintain clarity of mind and avoid being unduly influenced by external sensory experiences.
The fourth sense is the sense of taste, which is linked to the “water” element, and its subject is “juice.” The tongue delights in tasting a variety of flavors — sweet, sour, bitter, salty, spicy, and astringent — and often longs for the sensory pleasure that these tastes bring. However, indulgence in these flavors can lead to attachment and imbalance. A wise approach is to focus on consuming sattvik (pure) foods, which nourish the body without fostering unhealthy cravings or attachments to specific tastes. This mindful approach ensures that our relationship with food remains balanced and grounded.
The fifth sense pertains to the reproductive organ, which is also associated with the “water” element. This sense is responsible for both excretion and sexual activity. However, many individuals become overly attached to the pleasures of sex, allowing their desires to override their awareness and judgment. When driven by lust, a person may disregard ethical boundaries that they would otherwise adhere to, leading to moral decline. To prevent this, it is essential to introspect on the purpose of reproduction and to recognize the limits of sexual desire. By remaining objective and mindful of this process, one can maintain a sense of control and ensure that actions remain aligned with higher moral values.
In summary, this article emphasizes the importance of cultivating objectivity with regard to the senses and their corresponding elements. By approaching sensory experiences with awareness and detachment, one can preserve mental clarity and emotional balance, thus fostering spiritual growth and ethical behavior. Through self-reflection and mindfulness, we can ensure that our sensory experiences do not control us, but rather serve as tools for deeper understanding and inner peace.