Anu-Chintanam

Bhagavad Gita, which is a sacred Hindu scripture and a revered philosophical text. The Bhagavad Gita is a part of the larger Indian epic, the Mahabharata, and it contains a conversation between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer and divine guide.

In this particular verse (Chapter 12, Verse 13,14), Lord Krishna describes the qualities of a beloved devotee who is dear to Him. These qualities encompass a range of virtues that reflect the ideal spiritual disposition of a true seeker and devotee.

The verse serves as a guide for aspirants on the path of spiritual growth, highlighting the qualities and attitudes that lead to a deep and loving connection with the god. It emphasizes the importance of compassion, selflessness, equanimity, and surrender on the journey towards spiritual realization and divine communion. The devotee who embodies these qualities becomes dear to the god, experiencing a profound and loving relationship with the higher power.

Shloka –

अद्वेष्टा सर्वभूतानां मैत्रः करुण एव च ।
निर्ममो निरहङ्कारःसमदुःखसुखः क्षमी ॥
सन्तुष्टः सततं योगी यतात्मा दृढनिश्चयः ।
मय्यर्पितमनोबुद्धिः यो मद्भक्तः स मे प्रियः ॥

Transliteration –

“adveṣṭā sarva-bhūtānām maitraḥ karuṇā eva ca
nirmamo nirahaṅkāraḥ sama-duḥkha-sukhaḥ kṣamī
santuṣṭaḥ satataṁ yogī yatātmā dṛḍha-niścayah
mayy arpita-mano-buddhir yo mad-bhaktaḥ sa me priyaḥ”

#Word meaning#

Adveshtaa sarvabhootaanaam – One who is free from malice towards all beings.

Maitrah – One who is Friendly.

karunah – One who is compassionate.

Nirmamo – One who is Free from possessiveness.

nirahankarah – One who is Free from ego.

Sama-duhkha-sukhah – One who is Equanimous in pain and pleasure.

kshamee – One who is forgiving.

Santushtah – being satisfied.

satatam yogi – One who is always a yogi.

Yatatma – One who is Self-controlled.

drdha-nischayah – One who is firm in conviction.

Mayy arpita-mano-buddhih – Offering the mind and intellect to Me (the God).

Yo mad-bhaktah sa me priyah: Such a devotee is dear to Me.

#Explanation#

Adveshtaa sarvabhootaanaam – One who is free from malice towards all beings.

Being free from malice towards all beings means that an individual harbors no ill will, hatred, or animosity towards any living being. It is a state of mind characterized by compassion, love, and goodwill towards others, regardless of their actions, beliefs, or backgrounds. Being free from malice towards all beings is an essential aspect of spiritual growth and human development. It leads to a more compassionate and harmonious society, where individuals treat each other with respect, understanding, and love, creating a more peaceful and interconnected world.

Maitrah – One who is Friendly.

It means “one who is friendly.” A person who embodies “Maitrah” is warm, approachable, and treats others with kindness and goodwill. They have a friendly and amiable demeanor, making them easy to approach and interact with. This quality of friendliness fosters harmonious relationships and creates a positive and welcoming atmosphere in their interactions with others. Additionally, a friendly disposition can also help in building trust and understanding among people, making it an important quality in personal and social interactions.

karunah – One who is compassionate.

“Karuna” refers to the quality of compassion. A person who embodies “Karuna” is deeply compassionate and empathetic towards the suffering and struggles of others. They have a genuine concern for the well-being of all living beings and actively seek to alleviate the pain and difficulties faced by others.

Compassion is a powerful and transformative quality that allows individuals to connect with the emotions and experiences of others, showing understanding and support. It goes beyond mere sympathy and extends a helping hand to those in need, offering comfort and care. A compassionate person is sensitive to the feelings of others and acts with kindness, generosity, and selflessness.

The quality of “Karuna” is highly regarded in various spiritual and philosophical traditions, as it fosters love, understanding, and a sense of unity among all beings. By practicing compassion, individuals can create a more compassionate and harmonious world, making a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Nirmama – One who is Free from possessiveness.

“Nirmama” refers to the quality of being free from possessiveness or attachment. A person who embodies “Nirmama” has a sense of detachment from material possessions and is not driven by selfish desires for personal gain or ownership.

Being free from possessiveness means not clinging to external possessions, status, or achievements as the source of one’s identity or happiness. Instead, the individual focuses on inner contentment and recognizes the impermanence of worldly possessions. They understand that true happiness and fulfillment come from cultivating inner qualities, such as love, compassion, and spiritual growth.

Nirmama is an important quality in the spiritual journey, as it allows individuals to live with a sense of freedom and detachment from the material world. It helps in reducing the ego’s influence and fosters a deeper connection with the higher self or the divine.

By practicing Nirmama, individuals become more selfless, generous, and open-hearted, channeling their energy towards service, compassion, and the well-being of others. This quality brings a sense of inner peace and contentment, leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life.

nirahankarah – One who is Free from ego.

“Nirahankarah” refers to the quality of being free from ego or ahamkara. A person who embodies “Nirahankarah” has transcended the limitations of the ego and no longer identifies themselves solely with their individual self or identity.

Being free from ego means that this person does not have an inflated sense of self-importance, arrogance, or pride. They are humble, self-effacing, and recognize the interconnectedness of all beings. Instead of seeking recognition or validation for their actions, they act with a sense of selflessness and service.

By transcending the ego, individuals can experience a deeper sense of unity with others and the universe. They no longer view themselves as separate entities but as an integral part of the larger whole. This leads to a more compassionate and empathetic approach to life, as they can better understand the struggles and experiences of others.

Being free from ego is a crucial aspect of spiritual growth, as it allows individuals to let go of the illusion of the separate self and connect with the divine or higher consciousness. It opens the path to greater self-awareness, wisdom, and inner peace.

In the absence of ego-driven desires and actions, a person who embodies “Nirahankarah” can act with greater clarity, integrity, and authenticity, contributing positively to the well-being of others and the world around them.

Sama-duhkha-sukhah – One who is Equanimous in pain and pleasure.

“Sama-duhkha-sukhah” refers to the quality of being equanimous in pain and pleasure. A person who embodies “Sama-duhkha-sukhah” remains balanced and composed, regardless of the experiences of pain or pleasure that come their way.

This quality indicates a state of inner stability and resilience, where one is not overly affected by the ups and downs of life. Whether facing challenging circumstances or experiencing joyful moments, the person remains steady and unaffected by the external events.

Equanimity does not mean suppressing emotions or being indifferent; rather, it involves acknowledging and accepting the full range of human experiences without getting carried away by them. It allows the person to respond to situations with clarity and wisdom, rather than reacting impulsively based on emotions.

By cultivating equanimity, individuals can reduce suffering caused by excessive attachment to pleasurable experiences and aversion to painful ones. They become more adaptable and better equipped to navigate the complexities of life with a calm and peaceful mind.

Equanimity is an essential quality in the practice of mindfulness and spiritual growth. It helps in developing a deeper sense of inner peace, acceptance, and contentment. By being equanimous, individuals can maintain their focus on their spiritual journey and not get swayed by the transient nature of worldly experiences.

In the face of life’s challenges and joys, a person who embodies “Sama-duhkha-sukhah” continues to navigate with grace, compassion, and understanding, fostering harmony within themselves and in their relationships with others.

kshamee – One who is forgiving.

“Kshamee” refers to the quality of being forgiving. A person who embodies “Ksama” has the capacity to pardon or show clemency to those who have wronged or hurt them.

Being forgiving involves letting go of resentment, grudges, and the desire for revenge. It is a powerful act of compassion and empathy, where one chooses to release negative feelings towards those who have caused harm, understanding that holding onto anger and bitterness only perpetuates suffering.

Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but a display of inner strength and emotional maturity. It liberates the individual from the burden of carrying emotional baggage and opens the path to healing and inner peace.

When someone practices forgiveness, it does not necessarily mean that they condone or forget the harmful actions of others. Instead, they choose not to be defined by their past pain and opt for a more positive and constructive approach to resolving conflicts.

In the spiritual context, forgiveness is an essential aspect of personal growth and transformation. It aligns with the principle of compassion, letting go of judgments and embracing a sense of oneness with all beings.

By cultivating the quality of “Ksama,” individuals can experience a profound sense of liberation and emotional freedom. It promotes understanding and reconciliation, fostering harmonious relationships and contributing to a more compassionate and empathetic world.

A person who embodies “Ksama” embodies the power of forgiveness, not only for the benefit of others but also for their own well-being and spiritual growth. Their ability to forgive serves as an inspiration for others to seek reconciliation and healing in their own lives.

Santushtah – being satisfied.

“Santustah” refers to the quality of being content or satisfied. A person who embodies “Santustah” experiences a deep sense of contentment and fulfillment within themselves, regardless of external circumstances.

This quality of contentment is not dependent on material possessions, achievements, or external validation. It comes from an inner state of peace and acceptance of what life presents, recognizing the sufficiency of what one has in the present moment.

A person who is “Santustah” appreciates the simple joys of life and is grateful for the blessings they have. They do not constantly crave for more or compare themselves with others, but rather focus on cultivating a sense of inner happiness and well-being.

“Santustah” is closely related to the principle of detachment, where one is not attached to the outcomes of their actions or the results of their efforts. They approach life with equanimity, accepting both joys and sorrows with grace.

In the spiritual context, contentment is considered a virtue, as it frees the individual from the constant pursuit of external desires and attachments. It leads to a more peaceful and centered state of being, allowing one to focus on their inner journey and self-discovery.

By cultivating contentment, individuals can experience a deeper sense of inner peace and harmony. They are less prone to restlessness and dissatisfaction, and their presence radiates a sense of tranquility that can positively influence those around them.

“Santustah” encourages individuals to be present in the moment, cherishing the gifts of life, and embracing the imperfections and challenges that come their way. It fosters a more mindful and appreciative approach to life, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.

In summary, a person who embodies “Santustah” is content, satisfied, and at peace with themselves and their life circumstances. They serve as an example of living with simplicity, gratitude, and inner contentment, inspiring others to find joy and fulfillment within themselves.

satatam yogi – One who is always a yogi.

“Satatam Yogi” refers to one who is always in the state of being a yogi. In this context, “yogi” refers to a person who practices yoga or is dedicated to the path of spiritual discipline and self-realization.

Being “Yogi” means that the individual remains committed to their spiritual practice and seeks to integrate the principles of yoga into their daily life consistently. It is not just about performing physical postures (asanas) but about embodying the deeper essence of yoga, which includes ethical conduct, meditation, self-inquiry, and the pursuit of inner wisdom.
Being “Yogi” is a continual journey of self-discovery, growth, and spiritual evolution. It is not limited to a specific time or place but becomes an integral part of the person’s identity and way of being in the world. Such a dedicated yogi serves as an inspiration to others on the spiritual path, exemplifying the transformative power of consistent spiritual practice.

Yatatma – One who is Self-controlled.

“Yatatma” refers to the quality of being self-controlled or disciplined. It also refers a person who possesses Mastery over the Mind,Emotional Regulation,Moderation in Desires,Practicing Self-Discipline,Resilience in Adversity,Balanced Approach,Commitment to Values,Focus on Spiritual Growth,Consistency,Inner Strength.

Self-control is an essential quality in various philosophical and spiritual traditions, as it leads to greater self-mastery and the ability to make conscious choices that align with one’s higher purpose. It empowers individuals to break free from destructive patterns and cultivate positive and uplifting qualities in their character.

A person who embodies above mentioned qualities serves as an inspiration to others, showing the transformative power of self-discipline in leading a purposeful and meaningful life. They demonstrate that true freedom comes not from being driven by impulses but from exercising conscious control over one’s thoughts, actions, and emotions.

drdha-nischayah – One who is firm in conviction.

“Drdha-niscayah” refers to the quality of being firm in conviction or unwavering in belief. It also refers to a person who possesses Clarity of Beliefs, Resilience in the Face of Doubt, Steadiness in Faith, Commitment to Truth, Consistency in Actions, Openness to Learning, Resolute in Adversity, Willingness to Stand Alone, Confidence in Decision making.

Being firm in conviction is a quality that gives individuals a sense of inner stability and purpose. It helps them navigate life with clarity, strength, and authenticity. This quality is often associated with spiritual leaders and role models who inspire others through their unwavering commitment to their beliefs and values.

A person who embodies above mentioned qualities serves as a guiding light for others, showing the power of staying true to one’s principles and beliefs, even in the face of challenges or adversity. Their unwavering conviction can inspire others to find their own inner strength and clarity in their journey of self-discovery and growth.

Mayy arpita-mano-buddhih – Offering the mind and intellect to Me (the God).

“Mayy arpita-mano-buddhih” refers to the act of offering one’s mind and intellect to the God. It is an expression of surrender and devotion, where an individual dedicates their thoughts, understanding, and decision-making to the God’s will.

In this context, “manas” represents the mind, and “buddhi” refers to the intellect. By offering both the mind and intellect to the divine, the person relinquishes the ego’s control and aligns their thoughts and actions with higher wisdom and guidance. By Surrendering the Ego, Seeking Divine Guidance, Cultivating Inner Peace, Deepening Devotion, Letting Go of Attachments, Living with Acceptance, Embracing Divine Will one can achieve anything.

This act of offering the mind and intellect to the divine is a profound expression of faith and devotion in various spiritual traditions. It represents the willingness to be guided by higher wisdom and to align one’s actions with divine purpose.

By surrendering to the divine will, individuals free themselves from the anxieties and burdens of the ego-driven mind, finding solace and guidance in the loving embrace of the higher power. This act of surrender leads to a deeper sense of inner peace, trust, and alignment with the greater purpose of life.

Yo mad-bhaktah sa me priyah: Such a devotee is dear to Me.

“Yo mad-bhaktah sa me priyah” means “Such a devotee is dear to Me,” referring to the god. In this verse, it is conveyed that a devotee who possesses the qualities mentioned earlier, such as compassion, equanimity, selflessness, surrender, and firm conviction, is held in special affection by the divine.

This expression highlights the significance of sincere and wholehearted devotion to the God. When an individual embodies the qualities of a true devotee and dedicates their heart, mind, and actions to the god, they create a deep and loving connection with the god.

The bond between the god and such a devotee is based on mutual love, trust, and understanding. The god recognizes and cherishes the efforts and qualities of the devotee, while the devotee experiences a profound sense of love, guidance, and grace from the god.

The verse emphasizes the transformative power of genuine devotion and how it can draw the god’s affection and blessings. It also serves as an encouragement for seekers to cultivate these divine qualities in their lives and deepen their devotion, knowing that they too can experience the god’s love and support on their spiritual journey.

Ultimately, the relationship between the god and the devotee is one of love, where the devotee’s heart is filled with divine love, and the god reciprocates that love with profound affection and care.