🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar provides a detailed account of the people Arjuna sees on the battlefield. It is not just an anonymous army; it consists of his mentors like Dronacharya, his younger cousins, paternal uncles, and other highly respected elders. Seeing those he should be bowing to in a position where he must kill them creates the profound 'Vishad' (sorrow/despair) that the chapter is named after. This highlights the human struggle when personal reverence clashes with the grim reality of duty.

In professional or social life, we may encounter situations where we must challenge or compete against people we respect or are related to. This verse teaches us to acknowledge these relationships while preparing for the necessary action. Example: A journalist reporting fairly on a mentor's mistake.

Arjuna identifies his teachers, uncles, and elders on the battlefield, intensifying his emotional struggle.

In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj elaborates on the concept of non-doership. He explains that for a realized soul, the movement of the senses toward their respective objects (like eyes toward form or ears toward sound) is seen as a natural process of Prakriti (Nature). The enlightened person understands that 'I am not the doer'; rather, it is the senses interacting with sense-objects. This detachment allows one to remain peaceful even while being active in the world.

In daily life, practice mindfulness by observing your actions without being overwhelmed by the ego. For example, while eating, realize that the body is being nourished and the tongue is tasting, but maintain an inner sense of being a witness rather than just a consumer.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the state of a person who has realized the truth, showing how their senses function independently of their inner peace.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar advises Arjuna to perform his prescribed duties (Swadharma) without any hesitation or doubt. He emphasizes that action performed with a clear mind and without attachment to the results leads an individual to 'Purushartha'—the ultimate spiritual goal. Instead of renouncing action, one should refine the motive behind the action to attain perfection.

In a professional setting, focus entirely on the quality of your task without being distracted by the fear of failure or the greed for rewards.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains that performing one's rightful duties without confusion is the path to liberation.