🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar provides a profound analogy of the ocean to describe the equanimity of a realized soul. Just as the ocean is constantly filled by rivers flowing into it from all sides but remains undisturbed and maintains its boundaries, a person of steady wisdom remains unperturbed by the constant influx of sensory objects and desires. Their inner fulfillment is so absolute that external stimuli do not create any waves of agitation in their consciousness. They remain centered in their true self, regardless of the environment.

In a world full of distractions and consumerism, one should strive to be like the ocean. For example, when faced with peer pressure to adopt a lifestyle that doesn't align with your values, stay firm and calm in your principles rather than being swept away by the trend.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the state of a person with steady wisdom (Sthitaprajna) using the metaphor of an ocean.

In this verse of Dnyaneshwari, Saint Dnyaneshwar interprets Krishna's call to action. He urges Arjuna (Pandusuta) not to be misled by temporary emotions or confusion. The term 'Zhakavije' refers to being deluded by the illusion of 'mine' and 'thine'. The core message is that one must never abandon their 'Swadharma' (inherent duty), as performing one's duty is the highest form of worship and the only way to maintain social and spiritual order.

In professional life, one should not resign or run away from responsibilities during a crisis. Example: A leader must stay and guide their team through a difficult phase rather than abandoning the project due to stress.

Lord Krishna encourages Arjuna to perform his duty as a warrior without being swayed by delusion.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar illustrates the concept of Maya (illusion) and the non-doership of the Self (Atman). He uses the metaphor of a person traveling in a boat. To the passenger, the stationary trees on the riverbank appear to be moving in the opposite direction. However, the movement belongs to the boat, not the trees. Similarly, all actions are performed by the body and the modes of nature (Prakriti), but the ignorant person attributes these actions to the Soul. One who believes the Soul is the actor is considered deluded, as the Soul remains a silent, stationary witness to all activities.

This teaching helps us understand that our perceptions can be deceptive. For instance, when we are stressed, the world seems chaotic, but the chaos is often in our minds, not in the world itself. Recognizing this helps us stay calm and objective.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the concept of non-doership of the soul using the analogy of a moving boat.