🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

Saint Dnyaneshwar emphasizes the psychological root of desire. He suggests that the downfall of a seeker begins with the 'Sankalpa'—the mental formation or imagination regarding a sensory object. Even if one hears about a worldly pleasure by chance, one should not let the mind dwell on it. By preventing the 'touch' of thought (Sankalpa), one stops the chain reaction that leads to attachment, longing, and eventual loss of wisdom. It is a teaching on proactive mental discipline.

When browsing the internet, if you see a distracting advertisement for a luxury item, acknowledge its presence but immediately redirect your mind to your goal before you start imagining yourself owning it.

In the context of explaining the qualities of a person with steady wisdom (Sthitaprajna), Shri Krishna (through Dnyaneshwar Maharaj's commentary) explains how to prevent the downfall of the intellect by controlling the very first thought of desire.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar compares the intellect of a self-realized person to the ocean. The ocean is called 'Saritapati' (the lord of rivers). Despite countless rivers constantly flowing into it, the ocean neither exceeds its boundaries nor does it ever dry up; it remains full and steady. Similarly, a person of steady wisdom remains unaffected by the sensory desires or external circumstances that enter their mind. Their inner peace remains undisturbed regardless of life's ups and downs.

In daily life, practice emotional stability. For example, if you face criticism at work, instead of reacting with anger or sadness, remain calm like the ocean and focus on your duty without losing your mental balance.

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

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar emphasizes the social responsibility of leaders and wise individuals. He states that whatever actions a great person performs, the world accepts them as a standard or law. Common people naturally follow the path set by these influential figures. Therefore, to maintain social order and guide others correctly, the wise must perform their duties with discipline and integrity, even if they personally have nothing to gain from those actions. This is the essence of leading by example.

If a CEO of a company follows strict ethical guidelines, the employees naturally adopt the same culture. Leaders must lead by example because their actions define the behavior of the group.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the importance of setting a good example for society through one's actions.