In plain words
A thread runs through a garland while remaining distinct from its flowers. So the sages discern the witness through waking and the other states, and abide in it within. That Reality, which neither comes into being nor passes away—is it not you yourself?
Word for word
Like a thread present in the flowers while distinct from them, That is the witness, distinct in all the states beginning with waking. Discerning it, the sages abide in it within. Are you yourself not that Reality without coming into being or passing away?