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The Genius of Dnyaneshwar
Dnyaneshwari, on which this chapter is based, the older scriptures or the Vedas are described as tainted by human nature, as in a ‘quid pro quo’23. For example, I do this for God and therefore God will return something to me. Both verses criticize this aspect of the Vedas or at least underrate them indirectly. c) In one verse it is stated that dispassionate action can, in fact, take man beyond the watershed24 of his nature. This is difficult but also an ideal. Passion can be destructive, productive or caring. But even a caring disposition can lead to entanglement. This is a vast subject (the one concerning human nature) and is dealt at length in a later chapter of the Geeta. The Geeta herself mentions it only in passing at this stage. d) This part of the Geeta breaks new ground in terms of religious philosophy, if there is such a thing as religious philosophy. According to some, the idea of god can be discussed in philosophy but can philosophy figure in ideas given by an assumed god? More of this conflict later as the Geeta unfolds and Dnyaneshwar dwells on her. NOTE: Upanishads — philosophical texts towards the end of Vedic literature which discuss creation, reality etc (‘Up’ = near, ‘nishad’ = to sit, indicating a dialogue rather than a lecture.) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.
bland – mild, gentle and tasteless inscrutable – mysterious discernible – clearly seen cognitive – to know without an emotional basis entanglement – to be snared, to be caught in difficulties mail – body armour made of metal rings or plates linked together, worn by soldiers in former times exorcist – the one who expels evil spirits microcosm – mankind viewed as the epitome of the universe disparate – entirely different bliss – perfect joy, state of blessedness mire/ mired – involve in difficulties, sink in mud, dirt, swamp sacramental – ceremonial, religious pyre – a heap of combustible material metaphor – imaginative use of word, phrase or term irony – an expression with two meanings idolator – one who worships an idol hanker – to long for, to crave yoke – to tie, to harness