Theme of Atmabodha

The invocatory prayer eulogises the Self residing in the heart of an individual, which is of the form of existence-knowledge-bliss. I am that Self which cognises and remains a witness of the three states of consciousness, viz., waking, dream and deep-sleep and not the assemblage of elements. Verse 1 indicates the fourfold theme of the text: subject matter, object aimed at, relationship and qualified student. The fourfold qualifications of the student include discrimination, dispassion, wealth of six qualities and yearning for liberation. To the extent that a seeker develops these qualities, he becomes prepared to absorb the import of Atmabodha.