म्हणोनि समर्थें जे जे कीजे। तें तें इतरींही अनुष्ठिजे। तेंचि प्रमाण मानिजे। सामान्येंही॥
"Therefore, whatever a great man does, that very thing other men also do; whatever standard he sets up, the common people follow the same."
💡 Meaning
Therefore, whatever a great person does, others also follow. Whatever they establish as a standard, common people accept and practice it.
🔍 Deep Interpretation
In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj elaborates on the psychological truth that society looks up to its leaders. Whatever a 'Samartha' (a capable, wise, or influential person) does, it becomes a benchmark for others. Common people tend to imitate the actions of those they respect rather than following abstract theories. Therefore, the standard of behavior set by the elite or the wise becomes the social norm. This places a heavy moral responsibility on leaders to act righteously, as their lifestyle serves as a silent teaching for the masses.
🎯 Practical Application
This principle is vital in leadership and parenting. For example, if a manager in a company is punctual and ethical, the employees naturally adopt those values. Leading by example is more effective than giving instructions.
📌 Context
Saint Dnyaneshwar explains how the actions of a leader or a wise person set a precedent for the rest of society.