Tripura Rahasya

Hemalekha continued,

• The fair woman that appears as the object is only the reflection of the subtle concept already in the subjective mind.
• The mind draws an image of her beauty in conformity with its own repeated conceptions. The repeatedly drawn image becomes clearer and clearer until it appears solidly as the object. An attraction springs up by constant mental associations.
• The mind, becoming restless, stirs up the senses and seeks the fulfilment of its desires in the object; a composed mind is not excited even at the sight of the fairest.
• The reason for the infatuation is the oft-repeated mental picture. Neither children nor self-controlled yogis are excited in the same way (because their minds do not dwell on such things).
• So whoever finds pleasure in anything, the beauty therein is only mental imagery.
• Listen Prince! The idea of beauty lies in one's own desire innate in the mind.
• If, on the other hand, beauty is natural to the object of love, why is it not recognized by children too, as sweetness in edibles is recognized by them?
• The form, the stature and complexion of people, differ in different countries and at different times: their ears may be long; their faces distorted; their teeth large; their nose prominent; bodies hairy or smooth; their hair red, black, or golden, light or thick, smooth or curly; their complexions fair, dark, coppery, yellow or grey.
• All of them derive the same kind of pleasure as you, Prince!
• Even the most accomplished among men have fallen into the habit of seeking pleasure from woman, for all consider her the best hunting ground for delight.
• Similarly also a man's body is thought by women to be the highest source of enjoyment. But consider the matter well, Prince!

On hearing all this, Hemachuda (the Prince) developed disgust for earthly pleasures.