म्हणोनि कर्मे तरी कीजती। परि तीं कर्तेपणा न येती। जैसीं बीजें भाजिलीं न रुजती। पेरलीं तरी॥
"Therefore, actions are performed, but they do not result in doership; just as roasted seeds do not sprout even if sown."
💡 Meaning
Therefore, actions are indeed performed, but they do not lead to the sense of doership. Just as roasted seeds do not sprout even when sown, the actions of a wise person do not bind them.
🔍 Deep Interpretation
In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar uses the metaphor of roasted seeds to explain the state of a Jnani (wise person). Just as seeds that have been roasted lose their potential to sprout even when sown in fertile soil, the actions performed by a person established in self-knowledge do not create future bondage. Since the 'fire of wisdom' has destroyed the ego and the sense of doership (Kartrutva-bhav), their actions are purely functional and do not leave any karmic imprint. This illustrates the concept of 'Akarma'—action in inaction.
🎯 Practical Application
Practice performing your daily tasks without the ego of being the 'sole doer'. For example, while working on a team project, contribute your best effort as a duty rather than seeking personal glory. This mindset reduces stress and prevents the burden of expectations.
📌 Context
Saint Dnyaneshwar explains how a self-realized person remains free from the bondage of actions despite being active in the world.