System is dynamic. Answers are affirmative, yet evolving.
1. What is Viveka?
Power of discrimination between the real and the unreal or right understanding of things is Viveka.
2. What is Vairagya or renunciation?
Vairagya or renunciation is non-attachment with the wordly objects and not the non-possession of things. It is neither attraction nor repulsion of things.
3. Are viveka and vairagya methods for practice?
Viveka and vairagya are not in themselves methods of practice. They are actually the conditions of mind developed in the student automatically by the help of transmission. Even a lifetime of practice of discrimination between real and unreal cannot create the condition of mind which can be called the state of Viveka. Similarly no amount of practice of the detachment with the world can bring the condition which is real Vairagya.
4. How Viveka and Vairagya are developed naturally?
Viveka in true sense develops when senses are thoroughly purified. This happens only when the mind gets properly regulated and disciplined and egoism (or ahamkar) assumes a purified state. So when we practice meditation under the guidance and support of capable Master state of Viveka and Vairagya is developed naturally.
5. Does Vairagya means renouncing the world and going into solitary life?
No. Vairagya is not severing the connection with home, family and all worldly concerns and taking up the solitary life. Non-attachment by forced means cannot be cultivated. Vairagya is not external show-off but it is the inner state of mind.
6. Is it essential to opt for the life of solitary or become Sanyasi to attain Ultimate Reality?
No! Not at all! There are numerous examples of saints who attained the highest degree of perfection leading a household life all through. If one is not unduly attached with the objects which he is connected with, then what is the necessary of adopting a solitary life?
7. Feeling of Vairagya actuated by sudden causes, can it be called the state of vairagya in real sense?
No. Such kind of Vairagya is generally short lived and it changes with the circumstances. Here the seeds of desires and enjoyments still lie buried deep within heart and may sprout forth immediately when it finds congenial atmosphere.
8. Can Viveka and Vairagya be taken as the final attainment ?
No. Viveka and Vairagya are the elementary attainment in Yoga.