अमानित्वमदम्भित्वमहिंसा क्षान्तिरार्जवम् | आचार्योपासनं शौचं स्थैर्यमात्मविनिग्रह: || 8 || |
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“Absence of egoism, humility, non-violence, tolerance, simplicity, service to the teacher, cleanliness, steadfastness, self-control:”
Commentary
Lord Krishna now explains the characteristics of divine knowledge and the qualities of a wise person in the following verses.
Absence of egoism (amānitva): This refers to humility and lack of arrogance. It means not seeking recognition, praise, or asserting one’s superiority over others.
Humility (adaḿbitva): It signifies the absence of pretentiousness or false pride. A humble individual recognizes his own limitations and treats others with respect and equality.
Non-violence (ahiḿsa): This principle emphasizes refraining from causing harm or injury to any living being, whether in thoughts, words, or actions.
Tolerance (kṣānti): It denotes the ability to remain patient, composed, and accepting in challenging or adverse situations, without reacting impulsively or angrily.
Simplicity (ārjavam): It represents the quality of being straightforward, honest, and sincere in one’s thoughts, speech, and actions, without duplicity or hidden agendas.
Service to the teacher (ācāryopāsanam): This aspect emphasizes the reverence and gratitude shown towards teachers or mentors who impart knowledge, wisdom, and guidance.
Cleanliness (śauca): It refers to both physical and mental purity. Physical cleanliness involves maintaining personal hygiene and cleanliness in one’s surroundings, while mental cleanliness implies cultivating positive and pure thoughts.
Steadfastness (sthairyam): It denotes mental stability, firmness, and perseverance in one’s beliefs, principles, and actions, even in the face of challenges or distractions.
Self-control (ātma-vinigrahah): This aspect refers to the mastery over one’s senses, desires, and impulses. It involves exercising restraint and discipline to make conscious choices rather than being driven by impulses or external influences.