🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar describes the eternal nature of the Soul. Unlike the physical body which undergoes birth, growth, decay, and death, the Soul is 'Ajanma' (unborn) and 'Avinashi' (indestructible). It is described as 'Nitya Nutan' (ever-fresh), meaning it is not affected by the passage of time. It exists beyond the concepts of beginning and end. Even when the body is destroyed, the soul remains untouched.

Understanding that our true self is eternal helps reduce the fear of death and provides stability during the loss of loved ones. For example, just as we change old clothes for new ones, the soul merely changes bodies, so one should not grieve for the indestructible.

Lord Krishna explains the indestructible nature of the soul to Arjuna, and Saint Dnyaneshwar elaborates on this in Marathi.

Saint Dnyaneshwar describes the state of 'Sthitaprajna' (one with steady wisdom). He emphasizes that once the intellect is anchored in the Truth, it happens so naturally (Kautuke) that even the trace of doubt cannot exist. It is a state of absolute clarity where the dualities of the mind are dissolved. The light of wisdom dispels the darkness of uncertainty, leaving the seeker in a state of blissful stability.

In daily life, when we have complete clarity about our goals, distractions and doubts naturally fade away. For instance, a well-prepared athlete performs without second-guessing their moves because their focus is unwavering and their mind is steady.

Lord Krishna explains the state of steady wisdom to Arjuna.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar uses the metaphor of a painting on a cloth to describe the nature of existence. The 'Mind' is the canvas (patu) upon which the 'World' (Samsara) is painted as a picture. As long as the mind exists, the illusion of the world persists. When the canvas of the mind is 'torn' through spiritual wisdom and detachment, the veil of ignorance (bhramache patala) is lifted. This allows the seeker to perceive the underlying reality of the Atman (Self), which was previously hidden by mental projections.

In daily life, our stress and anxieties are often just 'pictures' created by our mind. For example, if you are afraid of public speaking, that fear is a mental projection. By practicing mindfulness and 'tearing' that mental cloth of fear, you realize your innate confidence and the reality of the situation.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains how the dissolution of the mind leads to the removal of illusion and the realization of the Self.