Passage 5

In English

In this context, we recognise the inner meaning of the word rishi. For that individual who can experience the Vedas and Brahman directly, the name Rishi is appropriate. One who can explain and expound the essential form of the Veda can be called a Rishi. Our Puranas have been telling us that Vasishta is the first Rishi. Vasishta had the aspect of Brahman in him, and he was called the Brahmarishi. Viswamithra, also, wanted to acquire this name of a Brahmarishi and he himself undertook great penance and then acquired the aspect of Brahman. As a result of his penance, Viswamithra could have the vision of Brahman. As soon as he had the vision of Brahman, he was addressed as Brahmarishi by Brahma Himself. Viswamithra was not satisfied and he told Brahma that he was not satisfied by his merely being addressed as a Brahmarishi. He said that he wanted to directly experience the Omkara and the vashatkara which the Veda has explained. Viswamithra understood that by getting merely the name of Brahmarishi he was not going to get the aspect of Brahmarishi. He would truly become a Brahmarishi only when he grasped fully the meaning of the sound Om and of Veda.