Devarishi Asita Devala
Other names: Asita; Devala; Asita-Devala. A sage associated with the Moksha and Yoga teachings of Jaigishavya in the Mahabharata. After witnessing Jaigishavya’s yogic powers, he sought instruction in the path of emancipation and became linked with teachings on detachment, truth, and spiritual discipline.
“The highly blessed Devala then reflected upon the power of Jaigishavya and the excellence of his vows as also upon the unrivalled success of his yoga. Then the self-restrained Asita, with joined hands and in a reverential spirit, enquired of those foremost of Siddhas in the regions of the Brahmasatris, saying, ‘I do not see Jaigishavya! Tell me where that ascetic of great energy is. I desire to hear this, for great is my curiosity.’ “The Siddhis said, ‘Listen, O Devala of rigid vows, as we speak to thee the truth. Jaigishavya hath gone to the eternal region of Brahman.’” Vaishampayana continued, “Hearing these words of those Siddhas residing in the regions of the Brahmasatris, Asita endeavoured to soar aloft but he soon fell down. The Siddhas then, once more addressing Devala, said unto him, ‘Thou, O Devala, art not competent to proceed thither, to the abode of Brahman, whither Jaigishavya hath gone!’” – The Mahabharata, Book 9: Shalya Parva: Section 50
