Song of the Avadhut by Dattatreya

Song of the Avadhut by Dattatreya is here presented as a new (1992) translation by Swami Abhayananda. His books and articles may be read and freely downloaded on his website at: www.themysticsvision.weebly.com, he has graciously allowed us to offer them here as well.

The knowledge of the Avadhut Gita is not limited to the mystics of any one cultural tradition, but is universal among all those who have attained to mystical vision. Some of the best known representatives of this particular universal knowledge are the Upanishadic rishis and Shankaracharya of the Vedantic tradition, al-Hallaj and Jalaluddin Rumi of the Sufi tradition, Shakyamuni and Ashvagosha of the Buddhist tradition, and Meister Eckhart and Juan de la Cruz of the Christian tradition. Download the free ebook here:

Song of the Avadhut by Dattatreya

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10 Fascinating Facts About the Song of the Avadhut

1. Mystical Origins: The “Song of the Avadhut” is a profound and poetic text found within the sacred scriptures of Hinduism, specifically the ancient Indian scripture known as the “Avadhut Gita.” It is attributed to Dattatreya, an enlightened sage revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
2. Essence of Non-Duality: The Song of the Avadhut beautifully expresses the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality. It explores the idea that there is only one ultimate reality, transcending all dualities, including good and evil, pleasure and pain, and self and other.
3. Symbolic Language: The text employs rich symbolism and metaphorical language to convey its profound teachings. It uses analogies drawn from nature, everyday life, and spiritual experiences to illuminate the nature of reality and the path to liberation.
4. Detachment from Illusion: The Avadhut Gita emphasizes the importance of transcending attachment and aversion to worldly phenomena. It guides the seeker to see through the illusion of the material world, recognizing that true liberation lies in detaching from transient forms and identifying with the eternal Self.
5. 24 Gurus: A unique feature of the Avadhut Gita is the enumeration of 24 Gurus or teachers from whom the Avadhut (enlightened being) learns valuable lessons. These Gurus include elements of nature, such as the earth, sky, wind, water, and animals, as well as seemingly ordinary people like children, a prostitute, and a blacksmith.
6. Transcendence of Social Norms: The Song of the Avadhut challenges societal norms and conventional notions of morality. It uses unconventional examples, such as the Avadhut’s association with individuals considered outcasts, to illustrate the transcendence of social boundaries and the universal nature of the spiritual path.
7. Direct Realization: The Avadhut Gita emphasizes direct experiential realization over intellectual understanding. It encourages seekers to go beyond mere conceptual knowledge and directly perceive the truth within themselves through meditation, self-inquiry, and deep introspection.
8. Non-Seeking: The text extols the state of non-seeking, where the Avadhut is free from any desire for worldly achievements, spiritual attainments, or even liberation itself. It points to the inherent fulfillment and bliss that arise when one recognizes their true nature as the eternal, unchanging consciousness.
9. Universal Relevance: Although rooted in Hindu philosophy, the teachings of the Avadhut Gita have been appreciated and embraced by seekers from various spiritual traditions. Its core message of non-duality, renunciation of illusion, and direct realization transcends religious boundaries, making it universally relevant.
10. Inspirational Guidance: The Song of the Avadhut continues to inspire spiritual seekers and yogis worldwide. Its poetic verses and profound insights serve as a guiding light, encouraging individuals to transcend limitations, awaken to their true nature, and abide in the timeless essence of pure consciousness.

Conclusion: The Song of the Avadhut, found within the Avadhut Gita, is a poetic and mystical text that illuminates the path of non-duality and liberation. Its timeless teachings and symbolic language continue to resonate with spiritual seekers, inviting them to recognize their innate divinity and transcend the illusions of the world.