🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj elaborates on the psychological truth that the masses look up to and emulate the behavior of those they consider superior or capable. A 'Samartha' (a person of influence or wisdom) sets the benchmark for social conduct. If a leader acts with integrity, it becomes the 'Praman' (standard) for the rest of society. This places a heavy moral responsibility on leaders, teachers, and elders to act righteously, as their life becomes a template for others to follow.

In a professional setting, if a CEO demonstrates ethical behavior and hard work, the employees naturally adopt those values. For example, a leader's punctuality inspires the entire team to be on time.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the social impact of a leader's actions on the common masses.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar elaborates on the concept of Advaita (non-duality) within the context of action. He explains that for a realized soul, the instruments of action, the materials used, the process of sacrifice, and the performer themselves are all manifestations of the same ultimate reality, Brahman. This holistic vision transforms every mundane act into a divine ritual, freeing the individual from the ego-driven bonds of karma.

Practice mindfulness by seeing the divine in daily chores. For example, while cooking, view the ingredients, the heat, and yourself as parts of one divine energy. This shifts work from a burden to a spiritual practice.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the vision of non-duality where every aspect of an action is seen as the Divine.

In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj employs the metaphor of ripples on water to describe the state of a 'Jivanmukta' (liberated soul). Just as ripples appear on the surface of water due to the wind but do not change the water's essential nature and eventually dissolve back into it, the actions of a wise person are merely superficial movements of nature. Because the wise person has transcended the ego and the 'I am the doer' sentiment, their actions do not create any karmic bondage. They remain a witness to the activities of the body and mind.

In daily life, practice performing your duties without constantly thinking 'I am doing this great task.' For example, when a professional plays an instrument with total absorption, the music flows through them; they are not 'doing' it, they have become the music. This reduces stress and improves quality.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains how an enlightened soul remains untouched by actions, similar to ripples on water.