धूमो रात्रिस्तथा कृष्णः षण्मासा दक्षिणायनम्। तत्र चान्द्रमसं ज्योतिर्योगी प्राप्य निवर्तते॥
dhūmo rātris tathā kṛiṣhṇaḥ ṣhaṇ-māsā dakṣhiṇāyanam tatra chāndramasaṁ jyotir yogī prāpya nivartate
Meaning
Smoke, night, the dark fortnight, the six months of the southern solstice — through this path, the yogi attains the lunar light and returns.
The path of darkness (dakshinayana) leads to the moon (temporary heaven) and eventual return to rebirth. Smoke, night, and darkness symbolize incomplete knowledge. Even accomplished yogis on this path must return. Only the path of complete light leads to no-return.
Strength Reflection
"I seek the complete light, not settling for partial illumination that requires return."
Devotional Surrender
O Krishna, let me not attain temporary realms but Your eternal light alone.