तैसे ते कुरुक्षेत्र । जे धर्माचे पवित्र । जेथ आले एकत्र । उभय दळ ॥
"In that manner, on the sacred land of Kurukshetra, both the armies assembled."
💡 Meaning
In that way, on the holy field of Kurukshetra, both the armies gathered together.
तैसे ते कुरुक्षेत्र । जे धर्माचे पवित्र । जेथ आले एकत्र । उभय दळ ॥
"In that manner, on the sacred land of Kurukshetra, both the armies assembled."
In that way, on the holy field of Kurukshetra, both the armies gathered together.
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.
रागद्वेषवियुक्तैस्तु विषयानिन्द्रियैश्चरन् । आत्मवश्यैर्विधेयात्मा प्रसादमधिगच्छति ॥
म्हणौनि इंद्रियें आपुलेनि मेळें । विषयो सेविजे सलीलें । परि तेथ रागद्वेषु न ढळे । मानसाचा ॥
"Therefore, the senses interact with objects naturally, but the mind does not waver with attachment or aversion."
Therefore, the senses may naturally experience objects, but the mind remains free from attachment and aversion.
In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar describes the state of a 'Vidhyeatma' (one who has controlled the self). Such a person allows the senses to interact with their respective objects naturally, but ensures the mind remains neutral. The absence of 'Raga' (attachment) and 'Dvesha' (repulsion) is the key to inner peace. Even while living in the material world, the seeker remains untouched by its dualities, leading to a state of divine grace and tranquility.
In daily life, when you use technology or eat food, enjoy its utility or taste, but do not become emotionally dependent on it. If it is unavailable, your peace of mind should remain intact.
Saint Dnyaneshwar explains how a person with a steady mind interacts with the world without being affected by likes and dislikes.
या यज्ञाचेनि आधारें । तुम्ही पावावें अभ्युदय थोरें । हे कामधेनु तुम्हां साचारें । होईल जाणा ॥ ११ ॥
"Through the support of this Yajna, may you achieve great prosperity; know for certain that this will be your wish-fulfilling cow."
By the support of this sacrifice, you shall attain great prosperity. Know that this will truly be like a Kamadhenu (wish-fulfilling cow) for you.
In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar elaborates on the concept of Yajna as the foundation of human progress. He suggests that when individuals perform their prescribed duties without selfish motives, they align themselves with the cosmic order. This alignment brings about 'Abhyudaya'—all-round prosperity. The metaphor of 'Kamadhenu' signifies that righteous action possesses the inherent power to fulfill all legitimate human needs and aspirations, provided they are pursued through the path of selfless service.
Approach your professional responsibilities as a selfless contribution to society. For instance, a business owner who prioritizes customer value over mere profit finds sustainable growth and reputation.
Lord Krishna explains the importance of Yajna (selfless action) as a means to achieve prosperity and maintain the world order.