🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar describes the setting of the Great War. Kurukshetra is referred to as 'Dharmakshetra' (the field of righteousness), signifying that the conflict is not merely physical but a moral struggle between good and evil. The term 'Ubhaya Dala' refers to the two armies—the Pandavas and the Kauravas—who have assembled at this sacred site. This sets the stage for the divine discourse of the Bhagavad Gita within the Dnyaneshwari.

Think of your mind as Kurukshetra whenever you face a moral dilemma. Always choose the path of 'Dharma' or integrity. For example, choosing to work hard instead of taking a shortcut is like winning a battle on your own field of righteousness.

Sanjaya describes the gathering of the two opposing armies on the sacred field of Kurukshetra to King Dhritarashtra.

In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj emphasizes that true renunciation (Sanyasa) is not merely the physical abandonment of work. As long as an individual identifies with the body ('I am this body'), the ego remains the 'doer'. Nature forces the body to act through its qualities (Gunas). Only when one transcends body-consciousness and realizes the Atman (Self) can one truly be free from the bondage of karma. Without this internal shift, any attempt to quit action is superficial.

In daily life, we often think quitting a job or responsibility is renunciation. However, true freedom comes from doing your duty without the ego of being the 'doer'. For example, a professional performing their task as a service to society rather than for personal pride is practicing the essence of this verse.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains that physical renunciation of action is impossible as long as one identifies with the body.

In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj emphasizes that the mere physical abandonment of prescribed duties (Uchita Karma) does not lead to a state of peace or liberation. One cannot simply sit idle and expect to be free from the cycle of action. True renunciation is internal, involving the removal of ego and attachment to results, rather than the cessation of physical work itself.

Instead of avoiding responsibilities at work or home under the guise of seeking peace, one should perform their duties diligently without being attached to the outcome.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains that one cannot attain liberation or peace simply by renouncing physical actions.