यदा संहरते चायं कूर्मोऽङ्गानीव सर्वशः । इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेभ्यस्तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ॥
जैसा कूर्मु आपुलीं अंगें । स्वेच्छेंचि संवरी वेगें । तैसीं इंद्रियें विषयसंगें । आवरिलीं ज्यानें ॥
"As the tortoise withdraws its limbs from all sides, so does the person who withdraws the senses from their objects; their wisdom is firmly established."
🔍 Deep Interpretation
In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar uses the metaphor of a tortoise to describe the mastery of a Sthitaprajna (a person of steady wisdom) over their senses. Just as a tortoise withdraws its limbs into its shell at will for protection, a wise person can withdraw their senses from worldly objects. This control is not forced but comes from a deep inner realization and willpower, ensuring that the intellect remains undisturbed by external temptations. It highlights that true freedom comes from the ability to detach from sensory pleasures whenever necessary.
🎯 Practical Application
When faced with distractions like social media while working on a goal, practice 'mental withdrawal' like a tortoise to stay focused on your priority and maintain mental peace.
📌 Context
Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the mastery of a person of steady wisdom over their senses using the analogy of a tortoise.