With the mind absorbed in listening to nāda, which penetrates the penetrable, arises awakening from sleep and the deep sleep state of the Self.

Nāda (inner sound) is the path of absorption emphasized in this chapter.

Nāda-śravaṇa-cittena — with the mind (citta) dedicated to listening (śravaṇa) to nāda. The technique is simple: listen to the internal sound, which becomes increasingly subtle.

Bhedya-bhedakam — which penetrates the penetrable. The nāda pierces all obstacles and veils.

The verse describes a paradox:

• Vyutthānam nidrāyāḥ — awakening from sleep (spiritual awakening)
• Suṣupti-sthitiḥ ātmanaḥ — the deep sleep state of the Self

The final state is compared to suṣupti (deep sleep) but with full consciousness. In deep sleep there are no objects, no duality, no ego — but there is also no consciousness. In samādhi there is that same absence of division but with full conscious presence.

It is absolute rest without the unconsciousness of sleep.