In the time of the Upanishads, women such as Gargi and Maitreyi were renowned for their deep knowledge and wisdom and would engage in philosophical discussions on a par with other realised sages. The Brihadharanyaka Upanishad features a conversation between Sage Yagnyavalkya and Maitreyi that drives home the truth of the Self, said Sri B. Sundarkumar in a discourse.
The sage had two wives, Maitreyi and Katyayani. Maitreyi by nature was more philosophical in her outlook and tried to participate in the mystic pursuits of the sage. The sage was revered as an impeccable guru and his disciples among whom Janaka was one served him with dedication.
At one point of time, the sage wished to give up his role as a preceptor to take up a life of contemplation. He divided his wealth and cows equally to be given to his two wives. Maitreyi told him that she did not want the wealth and that whatever he had apportioned as hers could be given to Katyayani. The sage tried to convince her that he had been fair when dividing his wealth. Maitreyi then told him that she desired to share whatever he was seeking. She presumed this to be more attractive than all the material possessions and high regard at his command that he now renounced. Yagnyavalkya was pleased at her desire to know the higher truths and told her that wealth cannot help one gain the wisdom that confers immortality. The wealth he seeks is that of Atma Jnana or the subtle knowledge of the Self. He explained that we love many objects and persons but this love is secondary since all these contribute to the pleasure of the Self. It is not for the sake of the husband that his wife loves him but it is far her own sake that he is loved.
Similarly in the case of all other bonds, the love shown towards one another is based on some expectation. Our real Self which is the Atma is the important factor and worthy of realisation. All actions are done for the satisfaction of the Atma.
