Sastric references for 'Separation is the highest!'

[Tarun]

We are all well familiar with the notion that separation is the highest. The highest what? The highest rasa? The highest method of bhakti sadhana? I think it needs clarification. And elucidation.

So what are the sastric references for separation as the highest? I do run into them from time to time. So I thought if I or anyone else finds some, they can be posted and collected here.

Separation stands in relation to union. We have heard of 'union in separation' and 'separation in union.' But is union not the highest? Seems like they might both be.

Anyways, I'll be on the lookout for sastric references and post them here.