🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj elaborates on the psychological truth that common people look up to leaders and realized souls for guidance. Whatever a 'Samartha' (a capable or great person) does, it becomes a benchmark for others. If a leader acts with integrity, the followers naturally emulate that behavior. This highlights the immense social responsibility of those in positions of power or knowledge, as their conduct defines the moral fabric of society.

In a workplace, if a manager stays late and works hard, the team is likely to follow that work ethic. Leaders must lead by example to inspire positive change.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains how the actions of great men set a precedent for the rest of society.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar illustrates the state of a realized soul. Just as all rivers flow into the ocean without disturbing its depth or causing it to overflow, all worldly desires and sensory inputs enter the mind of a wise person without causing any agitation. The desires lose their individual identity and merge into the vast ocean of the self. This signifies a state of absolute inner peace where external stimuli do not dictate internal happiness, as the person is already complete within.

In daily life, we are often distracted by various desires. Like the ocean, we should strive to remain steady. For example, a professional focused on a long-term goal remains unswayed by temporary setbacks or minor temptations.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the equanimity of a wise person (Sthitaprajna) using the metaphor of the ocean receiving river waters.

In this verse, Sant Dnyaneshwar emphasizes that physical renunciation of action is not the goal, as it is nearly impossible for a living being. Instead, one must learn the 'Yukti' (skillful method) of renouncing the bondage of action while still performing it. This method involves performing one's duty without attachment to the fruits of labor. By using action as a tool and applying spiritual wisdom, one can achieve a state of 'Naiskarmya' (actionlessness) even while being active.

In professional life, focus entirely on the quality of your work rather than being anxious about the promotion or reward. For example, a surgeon performs a surgery with total focus on the procedure, not on the fame or money it brings, thus practicing 'Yukti' in action.

Sant Dnyaneshwar explains the secret of performing actions without being bound by them, as taught by Shri Krishna to Arjuna.