🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

This verse uses the metaphor of a mirage to explain the nature of worldly existence. A mirage is an optical illusion caused by sunlight; similarly, the world and its pleasures are an illusion (Maya) projected onto the ultimate reality. Without the underlying reality of the Self, these appearances have no independent existence. When one transcends the perception of duality, the concept of worldly pleasure vanishes.

Realize that external objects are not the source of joy. Example: A video game provides joy only as long as you are engaged with it; the joy is in your state of mind, not the console itself.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the illusory nature of worldly pleasures using the metaphor of a mirage.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar describes the inner fullness of a realized soul. Just as the ocean remains undisturbed and full regardless of whether rivers flow into it or not, a wise person remains desireless and content. Their sense of fulfillment comes from within (the Self) rather than from external objects or achievements. They are 'Purnakama'—one who has attained everything there is to attain because they have realized the infinite nature of the soul.

In daily life, practice emotional stability. For example, if you don't get a promotion or a reward you expected, try to maintain your inner peace like an ocean, knowing your worth isn't defined solely by external gains.

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

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar describes the state of a person who has transcended worldly desires. He explains that for such a 'desireless' soul, the senses may continue to interact with their respective objects as a matter of natural function. However, because there is no attachment, ego, or craving involved in these interactions, they do not bind the individual or disturb their inner equilibrium. Just as an animal might graze in a field without any complex psychological attachment to the land, the senses of a wise person engage with the world purely and simply, leaving the consciousness untouched by sin or sorrow.

In modern life, we are surrounded by advertisements and consumer goods. If we practice using things based on necessity rather than greed, we maintain mental peace. Example: Using a smartphone for work without getting addicted to endless scrolling.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains how a person with a steady mind (Sthitaprajna) interacts with the material world without being affected by it.