🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar illustrates the concept of Maya (illusion) and the non-doership of the Self (Atman). He uses the metaphor of a person traveling in a boat. To the passenger, the stationary trees on the riverbank appear to be moving in the opposite direction. However, the movement belongs to the boat, not the trees. Similarly, all actions are performed by the body and the modes of nature (Prakriti), but the ignorant person attributes these actions to the Soul. One who believes the Soul is the actor is considered deluded, as the Soul remains a silent, stationary witness to all activities.

This teaching helps us understand that our perceptions can be deceptive. For instance, when we are stressed, the world seems chaotic, but the chaos is often in our minds, not in the world itself. Recognizing this helps us stay calm and objective.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains the concept of non-doership of the soul using the analogy of a moving boat.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar provides a profound interpretation of the soul's nature. He uses the metaphor of the 'Ocean of Milk' to explain that just as waves are not distinct from the milk they are made of, the individual soul is not distinct from the Supreme Reality. The soul is described as 'Achala' (immovable) and 'Adhala' (unshakeable), meaning it remains unaffected by physical changes or worldly transformations. This realization of oneness (Advaita) is meant to remove Arjuna's grief and fear of death.

Recognize that the divine essence within you and others is the same. Example: Maintaining inner peace during life's fluctuations by understanding that your core self is eternal and unchanging.

Lord Krishna explains the immortality and unchangeable nature of the soul to Arjuna, using metaphors to illustrate non-duality.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar explains that a person of steady wisdom remains unmoved by external desires. He uses the analogy of the ocean: even though numerous rivers flow into the ocean, it never overflows or loses its composure. Similarly, a wise person's mind is so deeply rooted in the self that external temptations and sensory objects enter the mind without causing any agitation or disturbance. Only such a person, who is not a slave to their desires, attains true and lasting peace.

In modern life, we are constantly bombarded with distractions and desires. This verse teaches us to be like the ocean—stable and vast—so that external pressures do not break our inner peace. Example: Remaining calm and focused on your work despite social media distractions or criticism.

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