🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar emphasizes the concept of 'Loksangraha' (the welfare and guidance of the world). He argues that the masses naturally follow the conduct of those they perceive as superior or leaders. If a leader like Arjuna were to abandon his duties, it would lead to social instability and mislead the common people. Therefore, for the sake of maintaining social order and guiding others toward the right path, one must perform their prescribed duties without attachment.

A leader in an organization must adhere to ethical standards and hard work because their subordinates emulate their behavior. For example, if a CEO practices transparency, the entire company culture becomes transparent.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains Krishna's advice to Arjuna about the importance of setting a righteous example for society through one's actions.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar uses a powerful metaphor of the sun and its light. He explains that memory (Smruti) is the foundation of intellect (Buddhi). When a person's memory of right and wrong is corrupted by anger and delusion, their intellect is inevitably destroyed. Just as the light cannot exist without the sun and vanishes the moment the sun sets, the human capacity for rational judgment vanishes the moment spiritual and moral memory is lost.

In practical life, this warns us against making decisions in a state of high emotion or anger. For example, if you are angry at a friend and forget all the good things they have done for you (loss of memory), you might end the friendship impulsively (destruction of intellect). Maintaining a calm mind preserves memory and intellect.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the psychological chain reaction where anger leads to delusion, delusion to loss of memory, and finally the destruction of intellect.

Dnyaneshwar Maharaj emphasizes that leaders and influential figures carry a heavy social responsibility. Since the masses tend to follow the footsteps of the 'Great' (Samartha), any lapse in their conduct could mislead society. Thus, for the sake of social order and guidance, realized souls or leaders must continue to perform their duties with perfection, even if they have no personal gain from it.

A leader's behavior sets the standard for the team. For instance, if a CEO practices transparency and punctuality, the employees are likely to be honest and disciplined as well.

Shri Krishna, through Saint Dnyaneshwar, explains why leaders and realized souls must continue to perform their duties to set a standard for society.