भज गोविन्दं is a direct and urgent Advaita भक्ति stotram composed by आदि शङ्कराचार्य. It speaks to the human tendency to become absorbed in learning, wealth, family, youth, ritual, and social identity while forgetting the certainty of death and the need for God-centered wisdom. Its refrain asks the seeker to worship Govinda, not as a rejection of learning, but as a correction of learning that has not become liberating knowledge.
Traditional accounts remember Shankaracharya composing this hymn after seeing an elderly scholar absorbed in grammar rules while life itself was passing away. The famous opening reference to डुकृङ्करणे points to grammar study that remains external if it does not lead to discrimination and devotion. Shankara uses the moment compassionately: he does not mock learning, but turns learning toward गोविन्द, the Lord who alone can carry the seeker across संसार.
The stotram is deeply rooted in Upanishadic and Gita teaching. It repeatedly returns to वैराग्य, mature dispassion; सत्सङ्ग, the company that reshapes the mind; विवॆक, discrimination between the lasting and the passing; आत्मज्ञान, knowledge of the Self; and नामस्मरण, remembrance of the divine name. Its force comes from translating high Vedanta into daily warnings: wealth will not save, youth will pass, relationships change, and only God-remembrance joined with Self-knowledge brings lasting freedom.
The stotram's concepts work like practical medicines for self-deception. भजन is not only singing; it is the repeated reorientation of memory, speech, and desire toward Govinda. मूढमति names the intelligent but misdirected mind that treats grammar, money, status, or pleasure as final goals. वैराग्य cuts fascination with what cannot last, सत्सङ्ग gives the mind a better atmosphere, and ब्रह्मपद points to the freedom that becomes possible when devotion and knowledge mature together.
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं
गोविन्दं भज मूढमते ।
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
गोविन्दं - Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings
मूढमते - O deluded mind
प्रारम्भ - the opening movement that sets the devotional and contemplative direction
Translation (भावार्थ):
Worship Govinda, worship Govinda, worship Govinda, O deluded mind.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on भज (worship, seek, lovingly remember), गोविन्दं (Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings), मूढमते (O deluded mind). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In daily life, this passage calls for a concrete correction: loosen one attachment, remember the divine name, choose good company, and act humbly before time removes what we took for granted. Skill should become service, affection should become responsibility, and success should remain guided by धर्म.
सम्प्राप्ते सन्निहिते काले
नहि नहि रक्षति डुकृङ्करणे ॥ 1 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
सम्प्राप्ते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
सन्निहिते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
काले - at the time, especially the final time
नहि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
रक्षति - a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation
डुकृङ्करणे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
गोविन्दं - Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings
Translation (भावार्थ):
When the final time approaches, grammar rules and external learning alone will not protect; remember Govinda before that moment comes.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on सम्प्राप्ते (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), सन्निहिते (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), काले (at the time, especially the final time), नहि (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A practical response is to examine one habit of clinging and replace it with remembrance, service, or study. In work, let competence serve others; in family, let love become responsibility rather than possession.
मूढ जहीहि धनागमतृष्णां
कुरु सद्बुद्धिं मनसि वितृष्णाम् ।
यल्लभसे निजकर्मोपात्तं
वित्तं तेन विनोदय चित्तम् ॥ 2 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
मूढ - O deluded one
जहीहि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
धनागमतृष्णां - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कुरु - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सद्बुद्धिं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मनसि - in the mind
वितृष्णां - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
यल्लभसे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
निजकर्मोपात्तं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वित्तं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Oh fool! Give up your thirst to amass wealth, devote your mind to thoughts to the Real. Be content with what comes through actions already performed in the past.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on मूढ (O deluded one), जहीहि (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), धनागमतृष्णां (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कुरु (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This teaching becomes useful when it changes priorities. Instead of postponing wisdom until old age, one can practice humility now, keep noble company now, and make choices that will still feel honorable later.
नारीस्तनभर-नाभीदेशं
दृष्ट्वा मा गा मोहावेशम् ।
एतन्मांसवसादिविकारं
मनसि विचिन्तय वारं वारम् ॥ 3 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
नारीस्तनभर - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
नाभीदेशं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
दृष्ट्वा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मोहावेशं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
एतन्मांसवसादिविकारं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मनसि - in the mind
विचिन्तय - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
वारं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Do not get drowned in delusion by going wild with passions and lust by seeing a woman's navel and chest. These are nothing but a modification of flesh. Fail not to remember this again and again in your mind.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on नारीस्तनभर (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), नाभीदेशं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), दृष्ट्वा (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मा (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita teaches उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं, that one must lift oneself by oneself through discipline. This verse therefore becomes a practical Advaita reminder: do not wait for old age or crisis to begin turning the mind toward Govinda.
The verse asks us to bring mortality into daily decision-making without fear. Remembering that time is limited can make speech kinder, work cleaner, money less possessive, and relationships more sincere.
नलिनीदल-गतजलमतितरलं
तद्वज्जीवितमतिशय-चपलम् ।
विद्धि व्याध्यभिमानग्रस्तं
लोकं शोकहतं च समस्तम् ॥ 4 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
नलिनीदल - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गतजलमतितरलं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
तद्वज्जीवितमतिशय - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
चपलं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
विद्धि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
व्याध्यभिमानग्रस्तं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
लोकं - world, universe, or all beings
शोकहतं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
समस्तं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
Translation (भावार्थ):
The life of a person is as uncertain as rain drops trembling on a lotus leaf. Know that the whole world remains prey to disease, ego and grief.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on नलिनीदल (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), गतजलमतितरलं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), तद्वज्जीवितमतिशय (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), चपलं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In study, profession, and family life, the passage encourages disciplined simplicity. Reduce needless craving, keep the mind near God, and let achievement be measured by integrity as much as outcome.
यावद्वित्तोपार्जनसक्तः
तावन्निजपरिवारो रक्तः ।
पश्चाज्जीवति जर्जरदेहे
वार्तां कोऽपि न पृच्छति गेहे ॥ 5 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
यावद्वित्तोपार्जनसक्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
तावन्निजपरिवारो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
रक्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पश्चाज्जीवति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
जर्जरदेहे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
वार्तां - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कोऽपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
न - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पृच्छति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गेहे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
Translation (भावार्थ):
So long as a man is fit and able to support his family, see what affection all those around him show. But no one at home cares to even have a word with him when his body totters due to old age.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on यावद्वित्तोपार्जनसक्तः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), तावन्निजपरिवारो (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), रक्तः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), पश्चाज्जीवति (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A small daily practice is to ask: what am I chasing that will not protect me, and what virtue should I strengthen today? That question turns the song into a guide for wiser ambition.
यावत्पवनो निवसति देहे
तावत्पृच्छति कुशलं गेहे ।
गतवति वायौ देहापाये
भार्या बिभ्यति तस्मिन्काये ॥ 6 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
यावत्पवनो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
निवसति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
देहे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
तावत्पृच्छति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कुशलं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गेहे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
गतवति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वायौ - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
देहापाये - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
भार्या - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
When one is alive, his family members enquire kindly about his welfare. But when the soul departs from the body, even his wife runs away in fear of the corpse.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on यावत्पवनो (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), निवसति (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), देहे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), तावत्पृच्छति (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This passage can make success more mature by joining effort with detachment. Work hard, but do not worship status; love deeply, but do not control; learn well, but remain humble before truth.
बालस्तावत्क्रीडासक्तः
तरुणस्तावत्तरुणीसक्तः ।
वृद्धस्तावच्चिन्तासक्तः
परमे ब्रह्मणि कोऽपि न सक्तः ॥ 7 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
बालस्तावत्क्रीडासक्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
तरुणस्तावत्तरुणीसक्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वृद्धस्तावच्चिन्तासक्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
परमे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
ब्रह्मणि - in Brahman, the Absolute Reality
कोऽपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
न - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सक्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
गोविन्दं - Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings
Translation (भावार्थ):
The childhood is lost by attachment to playfulness. Youth is lost by attachment to woman. Old age passes away by thinking over many things. But there is hardly anyone who wants to be lost in parabrahman.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on बालस्तावत्क्रीडासक्तः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), तरुणस्तावत्तरुणीसक्तः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), वृद्धस्तावच्चिन्तासक्तः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), परमे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita teaches उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं, that one must lift oneself by oneself through discipline. This verse therefore becomes a practical Advaita reminder: do not wait for old age or crisis to begin turning the mind toward Govinda.
In ordinary responsibilities, the teaching asks for remembrance before reaction. When desire, fear, or pride rises, return to the divine name and choose the action that preserves धर्म.
का ते कान्ता कस्ते पुत्रः
संसारोऽयमतीव विचित्रः ।
कस्य त्वं कः कुत आयातः
तत्त्वं चिन्तय तदिह भ्रातः ॥ 8 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
का - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
ते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
कान्ता - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कस्ते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
पुत्रः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
संसारोऽयमतीव - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
विचित्रः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कस्य - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
त्वं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Who is your wife? Who is your son? Strange is this samsAra, the world. Of whom are you? From where have you come? Brother, ponder over these truths.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on का (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), ते (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), कान्ता (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कस्ते (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In daily life, this passage calls for a concrete correction: loosen one attachment, remember the divine name, choose good company, and act humbly before time removes what we took for granted. Skill should become service, affection should become responsibility, and success should remain guided by धर्म.
सत्सङ्गत्वे निस्सङ्गत्वं
निस्सङ्गत्वे निर्मोहत्वम् ।
निर्मोहत्वे निश्चलतत्त्वं
निश्चलतत्त्वे जीवन्मुक्तिः ॥ 9 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
सत्सङ्गत्वे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
निस्सङ्गत्वं - a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation
निस्सङ्गत्वे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
निर्मोहत्वं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
निर्मोहत्वे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
निश्चलतत्त्वं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
निश्चलतत्त्वे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
जीवन्मुक्तिः - liberation while living
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
गोविन्दं - Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings
Translation (भावार्थ):
From satsanga, company of good people, comes non-attachment, from non-attachment comes freedom from delusion, which leads to self-settledness. From self-settledness comes the ultimate liberation.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on सत्सङ्गत्वे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), निस्सङ्गत्वं (a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation), निस्सङ्गत्वे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), निर्मोहत्वं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A practical response is to examine one habit of clinging and replace it with remembrance, service, or study. In work, let competence serve others; in family, let love become responsibility rather than possession.
वयसि गते कः कामविकारः
शुष्के नीरे कः कासारः ।
क्षीणे वित्ते कः परिवारः
ज्ञाते तत्त्वे कः संसारः ॥ 10 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
वयसि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
कः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कामविकारः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
शुष्के - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
नीरे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
कासारः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
क्षीणे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
वित्ते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
परिवारः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
What good is lust when youth has fled? What use is a lake which has no water? Where are the relatives when wealth is gone? Where is samsAra, the world, when the Truth is known?
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on वयसि (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), गते (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), कः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कामविकारः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This teaching becomes useful when it changes priorities. Instead of postponing wisdom until old age, one can practice humility now, keep noble company now, and make choices that will still feel honorable later.
मा कुरु धन-जन-यौवन-गर्वं
हरति निमेषात्कालः सर्वम् ।
मायामयमिदमखिलं हित्वा
ब्रह्मपदं त्वं प्रविश विदित्वा ॥ 11 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
मा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कुरु - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
धन - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
जन - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
यौवन - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गर्वं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
हरति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
निमेषात्कालः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सर्वं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मायामयमिदमखिलं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Do not boast of wealth, friends, and youth. Each one of these is destroyed within a minute of time. Free yourself from the illusion of the world of Maya and attain the timeless Truth.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on मा (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कुरु (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), धन (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), जन (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita teaches उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं, that one must lift oneself by oneself through discipline. This verse therefore becomes a practical Advaita reminder: do not wait for old age or crisis to begin turning the mind toward Govinda.
The verse asks us to bring mortality into daily decision-making without fear. Remembering that time is limited can make speech kinder, work cleaner, money less possessive, and relationships more sincere.
दिनयामिन्यौ सायं प्रातः
शिशिरवसन्तौ पुनरायातः ।
कालः क्रीडति गच्छत्यायुः
तदपि न मुञ्चत्याशावायुः ॥ 12 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
दिनयामिन्यौ - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सायं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
प्रातः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
शिशिरवसन्तौ - a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation
पुनरायातः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कालः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
क्रीडति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गच्छत्यायुः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
तदपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
न - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Daylight and darkness, dusk and dawn, winter and springtime come and go. Time plays and life ebbs away. But the storm of desire never leaves.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on दिनयामिन्यौ (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), सायं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), प्रातः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), शिशिरवसन्तौ (a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In study, profession, and family life, the passage encourages disciplined simplicity. Reduce needless craving, keep the mind near God, and let achievement be measured by integrity as much as outcome.
का ते कान्ता धनगतचिन्ता
वातुल किं तव नास्ति नियन्ता ।
त्रिजगति सज्जनसङ्गतिरेका
भवति भवार्णवतरणे नौका ॥ 13 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
का - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
ते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
कान्ता - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
धनगतचिन्ता - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वातुल - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
किं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
तव - your
नास्ति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
नियन्ता - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
त्रिजगति - world, universe, or all beings
Translation (भावार्थ):
Oh mad man! Why this engrossment in thoughts of wealth? Is there no one to guide you? There is only one thing in three worlds that can save you from the ocean of samsAra, get into the boat of satsanga, company of good people, quickly.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on का (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), ते (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), कान्ता (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), धनगतचिन्ता (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A small daily practice is to ask: what am I chasing that will not protect me, and what virtue should I strengthen today? That question turns the song into a guide for wiser ambition.
द्वादश-मञ्जरिकाभिरशेषः
कथितो वैयाकरणस्यैषः ।
उपदेशोऽभूद्विद्या-निपुणैः
श्रीमच्छङ्कर-भगवच्छरणैः ॥ 14 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
द्वादश - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मञ्जरिकाभिरशेषः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कथितो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वैयाकरणस्यैषः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
उपदेशोऽभूद्विद्या - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
निपुणैः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
श्रीमच्छङ्कर - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भगवच्छरणैः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
गोविन्दं - Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings
Translation (भावार्थ):
This bouquet of twelve verses (2-13) was imparted to a grammarian by the all-knowing Shankara, adored as the bhagavadpada. The following 14 form chaturdaSamaMjarikA.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on द्वादश (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मञ्जरिकाभिरशेषः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कथितो (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), वैयाकरणस्यैषः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This passage can make success more mature by joining effort with detachment. Work hard, but do not worship status; love deeply, but do not control; learn well, but remain humble before truth.
जटिलो मुण्डी लुञ्छितकेशः
काषायाम्बर-बहुकृतवेषः ।
पश्यन्नपि च न पश्यति मूढः
उदरनिमित्तं बहुकृतवेषः ॥ 15 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
जटिलो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मुण्डी - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
लुञ्छितकेशः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
काषायाम्बर - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
बहुकृतवेषः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पश्यन्नपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
न - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पश्यति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मूढः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
उदरनिमित्तं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
There are many who go with matted locks, many who have clean shaven heads, many whose hairs have been plucked out; some are clothed in orange, yet others in various colors -all just for a livelihood. Seeing truth revealed before them, still the foolish ones see it not.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on जटिलो (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मुण्डी (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), लुञ्छितकेशः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), काषायाम्बर (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita teaches उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं, that one must lift oneself by oneself through discipline. This verse therefore becomes a practical Advaita reminder: do not wait for old age or crisis to begin turning the mind toward Govinda.
In ordinary responsibilities, the teaching asks for remembrance before reaction. When desire, fear, or pride rises, return to the divine name and choose the action that preserves धर्म.
अङ्गं गलितं पलितं मुण्डं
दशनविहीनं जातं तुण्डम् ।
वृद्धो याति गृहीत्वा दण्डं
तदपि न मुञ्चत्याशापिण्डम् ॥ 16 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
अङ्गं - a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation
गलितं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पलितं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मुण्डं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
दशनविहीनं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
जातं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
तुण्डं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वृद्धो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
याति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गृहीत्वा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Strength has left the old man's body; his head has become bald, his gums toothless and leaning on crutches. Even then the attachment is strong and he clings firmly to fruitless desires.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on अङ्गं (a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation), गलितं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), पलितं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मुण्डं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In daily life, this passage calls for a concrete correction: loosen one attachment, remember the divine name, choose good company, and act humbly before time removes what we took for granted. Skill should become service, affection should become responsibility, and success should remain guided by धर्म.
अग्रे वह्निः पृष्ठे भानुः
रात्रौ चुबुक-समर्पित-जानुः ।
करतल-भिक्षस्तरुतलवासः
तदपि न मुञ्चत्याशापाशः ॥ 17 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
अग्रे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
वह्निः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पृष्ठे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
भानुः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
रात्रौ - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
चुबुक - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
समर्पित - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
जानुः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
करतल - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भिक्षस्तरुतलवासः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Behold there lies the man who sits warming up his body with the fire in front and the sun at the back; at night he curls up the body to keep out of the cold; he eats his beggar's food from the bowl of his hand and sleeps beneath the tree. Still in his heart, he is a wretched puppet at the hands of passions.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on अग्रे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), वह्निः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), पृष्ठे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), भानुः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A practical response is to examine one habit of clinging and replace it with remembrance, service, or study. In work, let competence serve others; in family, let love become responsibility rather than possession.
कुरुते गङ्गासागरगमनं
व्रत-परिपालनमथवा दानम् ।
ज्ञानविहीनः सर्वमतेन
भजति न मुक्तिं जन्मशतेन ॥ 18 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
कुरुते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
गङ्गासागरगमनं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
व्रत - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
परिपालनमथवा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
दानं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
ज्ञानविहीनः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सर्वमतेन - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भजति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
न - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मुक्तिं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
One may go to Ganga river, observe fasts, and give away riches in charity ! Yet, devoid of the true knowledge, nothing can give mukti even at the end of a hundred births.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on कुरुते (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), गङ्गासागरगमनं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), व्रत (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), परिपालनमथवा (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This teaching becomes useful when it changes priorities. Instead of postponing wisdom until old age, one can practice humility now, keep noble company now, and make choices that will still feel honorable later.
सुरमन्दिर-तरु-मूल-निवासः
शय्या भूतलमजिनं वासः ।
सर्व-परिग्रह-भोगत्यागः
कस्य सुखं न करोति विरागः ॥ 19 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
सुरमन्दिर - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
तरु - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मूल - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
निवासः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
शय्या - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भूतलमजिनं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वासः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सर्व - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
परिग्रह - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भोगत्यागः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Take your residence in a temple or below a tree, wear the deerskin for the dress, and sleep with mother earth as your bed. Give up all attachments and renounce all comforts. Blessed with such vairgya, could any fail to be content?
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on सुरमन्दिर (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), तरु (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मूल (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), निवासः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita teaches उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं, that one must lift oneself by oneself through discipline. This verse therefore becomes a practical Advaita reminder: do not wait for old age or crisis to begin turning the mind toward Govinda.
The verse asks us to bring mortality into daily decision-making without fear. Remembering that time is limited can make speech kinder, work cleaner, money less possessive, and relationships more sincere.
योगरतो वा भोगरतो वा
सङ्गरतो वा सङ्गविहीनः ।
यस्य ब्रह्मणि रमते चित्तं
नन्दति नन्दति नन्दत्येव ॥ 20 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
योगरतो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भोगरतो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सङ्गरतो - a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation
सङ्गविहीनः - a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation
यस्य - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
ब्रह्मणि - in Brahman, the Absolute Reality
रमते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
चित्तं - mind, inner instrument
नन्दति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
One may take delight in yoga or bhoga, may have attachment or detachment. But only he whose mind steadily delights in Brahman enjoys bliss, no one else.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on योगरतो (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), वा (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), भोगरतो (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), सङ्गरतो (a bodily or visual image used for devotional contemplation). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In study, profession, and family life, the passage encourages disciplined simplicity. Reduce needless craving, keep the mind near God, and let achievement be measured by integrity as much as outcome.
भगवद्गीता किञ्चिदधीता
गङ्गाजल-लवकणिका पीता ।
सकृदपि येन मुरारिसमर्चा
क्रियते तस्य यमेन न चर्चा ॥ 21 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
भगवद्गीता - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
किञ्चिदधीता - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गङ्गाजल - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
लवकणिका - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पीता - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सकृदपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
येन - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मुरारिसमर्चा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
क्रियते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
तस्य - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Let a man read but a little from bhagavadgItA, drink just a drop of water from the Ganges, worship but once murAri. He then will have no altercation with Yama.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on भगवद्गीता (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), किञ्चिदधीता (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), गङ्गाजल (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), लवकणिका (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A small daily practice is to ask: what am I chasing that will not protect me, and what virtue should I strengthen today? That question turns the song into a guide for wiser ambition.
पुनरपि जननं पुनरपि मरणं
पुनरपि जननीजठरे शयनम् ।
इह संसारे बहुदुस्तारे
कृपयाऽपारे पाहि मुरारे ॥ 22 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
पुनरपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
जननं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मरणं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
जननीजठरे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
शयनं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
इह - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
संसारे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
बहुदुस्तारे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
कृपयाऽपारे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
पाहि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Born again, death again, again to stay in the mother's womb! It is indeed hard to cross this boundless ocean of samsAra. Oh Murari! Redeem me through Thy mercy.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on पुनरपि (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), जननं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मरणं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), जननीजठरे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This passage can make success more mature by joining effort with detachment. Work hard, but do not worship status; love deeply, but do not control; learn well, but remain humble before truth.
रथ्याचर्पट-विरचित-कन्थः
पुण्यापुण्य-विवर्जित-पन्थः ।
योगी योगनियोजित-चित्तः
रमते बालोन्मत्तवदेव ॥ 23 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
रथ्याचर्पट - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
विरचित - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कन्थः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पुण्यापुण्य - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
विवर्जित - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पन्थः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
योगी - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
योगनियोजित - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
चित्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
रमते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
Translation (भावार्थ):
There is no shortage of clothing for a monk so long as there are rags cast off the road. Freed from vices and virtues, onward he wanders. One who lives in communion with god enjoys bliss, pure and uncontaminated, like a child and as an intoxicated.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on रथ्याचर्पट (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), विरचित (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कन्थः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), पुण्यापुण्य (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita teaches उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं, that one must lift oneself by oneself through discipline. This verse therefore becomes a practical Advaita reminder: do not wait for old age or crisis to begin turning the mind toward Govinda.
In ordinary responsibilities, the teaching asks for remembrance before reaction. When desire, fear, or pride rises, return to the divine name and choose the action that preserves धर्म.
कस्त्वं कोऽहं कुत आयातः
का मे जननी को मे तातः ।
इति परिभावय सर्वमसारं
विश्वं त्यक्त्वा स्वप्नविचारम् ॥ 24 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
कस्त्वं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कोऽहं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कुत - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
आयातः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
का - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
जननी - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
को - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
तातः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
परिभावय - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
Translation (भावार्थ):
Who are you? Who am I? From where do I come? Who is my mother, who is my father? Ponder thus, look at everything as essence-less and give up the world as an idle dream.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on कस्त्वं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कोऽहं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कुत (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), आयातः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In daily life, this passage calls for a concrete correction: loosen one attachment, remember the divine name, choose good company, and act humbly before time removes what we took for granted. Skill should become service, affection should become responsibility, and success should remain guided by धर्म.
त्वयि मयि चान्यत्रैको विष्णुः
व्यर्थं कुप्यसि मय्यसहिष्णुः ।
भव समचित्तः सर्वत्र त्वं
वाञ्छस्यचिराद्यदि विष्णुत्वम् ॥ 25 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
त्वयि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मयि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
चान्यत्रैको - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
विष्णुः - Vishnu, the all-pervading Lord
व्यर्थं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कुप्यसि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मय्यसहिष्णुः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भव - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
समचित्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सर्वत्र - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
In me, in you and in everything, none but the same Vishnu dwells. Your anger and impatience is meaningless. If you wish to attain the status of Vishnu, have samabhAva, equanimity, always.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on त्वयि (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मयि (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), चान्यत्रैको (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), विष्णुः (Vishnu, the all-pervading Lord). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A practical response is to examine one habit of clinging and replace it with remembrance, service, or study. In work, let competence serve others; in family, let love become responsibility rather than possession.
शत्रौ मित्रे पुत्रे बन्धौ
मा कुरु यत्नं विग्रहसन्धौ ।
सर्वस्मिन्नपि पश्यात्मानं
सर्वत्रोत्सृज भेदाज्ञानम् ॥ 26 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
शत्रौ - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मित्रे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
पुत्रे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
बन्धौ - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कुरु - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
यत्नं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
विग्रहसन्धौ - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सर्वस्मिन्नपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पश्यात्मानं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Waste not your efforts to win the love of or to fight against friend and foe, children and relatives. See yourself in everyone and give up all feelings of duality completely.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on शत्रौ (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मित्रे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), पुत्रे (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), बन्धौ (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This teaching becomes useful when it changes priorities. Instead of postponing wisdom until old age, one can practice humility now, keep noble company now, and make choices that will still feel honorable later.
कामं क्रोधं लोभं मोहं
त्यक्त्वाऽऽत्मानं पश्यति सोऽहम् ।
आत्मज्ञानविहीना मूढाः
ते पच्यन्ते नरकनिगूढाः ॥ 27 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
कामं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
क्रोधं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
लोभं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मोहं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
त्यक्त्वाऽऽत्मानं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पश्यति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सोऽहं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
आत्मज्ञानविहीना - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मूढाः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
ते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
Translation (भावार्थ):
Give up lust, anger, infatuation, and greed. Ponder over your real nature. Fools are they who are blind to the Self. Cast into hell, they suffer there endlessly.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on कामं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), क्रोधं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), लोभं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मोहं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita teaches उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं, that one must lift oneself by oneself through discipline. This verse therefore becomes a practical Advaita reminder: do not wait for old age or crisis to begin turning the mind toward Govinda.
The verse asks us to bring mortality into daily decision-making without fear. Remembering that time is limited can make speech kinder, work cleaner, money less possessive, and relationships more sincere.
गेयं गीता-नामसहस्रं
ध्येयं श्रीपति-रूपमजस्रम् ।
नेयं सज्जन-सङ्गे चित्तं
देयं दीनजनाय च वित्तम् ॥ 28 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
गेयं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
गीता - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
नामसहस्रं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
ध्येयं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
श्रीपति - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
रूपमजस्रं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
नेयं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सज्जन - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सङ्गे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
चित्तं - mind, inner instrument
Translation (भावार्थ):
Regularly recite from the Gita, meditate on Vishnu in your heart, and chant His thousand glories. Take delight to be with the noble and the holy. Distribute your wealth in charity to the poor and the needy.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on गेयं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), गीता (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), नामसहस्रं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), ध्येयं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In study, profession, and family life, the passage encourages disciplined simplicity. Reduce needless craving, keep the mind near God, and let achievement be measured by integrity as much as outcome.
सुखतः क्रियते कामाभोगः
पश्चादन्त शरीरे रोगः ।
यद्यपि लोके मरणं शरणं
तदपि न मुञ्चति पापाचरणम् ॥ 29 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
सुखतः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
क्रियते - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
कामाभोगः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पश्चादन्त - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
शरीरे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
रोगः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
यद्यपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
लोके - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
मरणं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
शरणं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
He who yields to lust for pleasure leaves his body a prey to disease. Though death brings an end to everything, man does not give-up the sinful path.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on सुखतः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), क्रियते (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), कामाभोगः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), पश्चादन्त (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A small daily practice is to ask: what am I chasing that will not protect me, and what virtue should I strengthen today? That question turns the song into a guide for wiser ambition.
अर्थमनर्थं भावय नित्यं
नास्तिततः सुखलेशः सत्यम् ।
पुत्रादपि धनभाजां भीतिः
सर्वत्रैषा विहिता रीतिः ॥ 30 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
अर्थमनर्थं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भावय - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
नित्यं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
नास्तिततः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सुखलेशः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सत्यं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पुत्रादपि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
धनभाजां - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भीतिः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सर्वत्रैषा - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
Translation (भावार्थ):
Wealth is not welfare, truly there is no joy in it. Reflect thus at all times. A rich man fears even his own son. This is the way of wealth everywhere.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on अर्थमनर्थं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), भावय (dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation), नित्यं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), नास्तिततः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This passage can make success more mature by joining effort with detachment. Work hard, but do not worship status; love deeply, but do not control; learn well, but remain humble before truth.
प्राणायामं प्रत्याहारं
नित्यानित्य विवेकविचारम् ।
जाप्यसमेतसमाधिविधानं
कुर्ववधानं महदवधानम् ॥ 31 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
प्राणायामं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
प्रत्याहारं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
नित्यानित्य - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
विवेकविचारं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
जाप्यसमेतसमाधिविधानं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कुर्ववधानं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
महदवधानं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
गोविन्दं - Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings
Translation (भावार्थ):
Regulate the prANa-s, life forces, remain unaffected by external influences and discriminate between the real and the fleeting. Chant the holy name of God and silence the turbulent mind. Perform these with care, with extreme care.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on प्राणायामं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), प्रत्याहारं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), नित्यानित्य (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), विवेकविचारं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita teaches उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं, that one must lift oneself by oneself through discipline. This verse therefore becomes a practical Advaita reminder: do not wait for old age or crisis to begin turning the mind toward Govinda.
In ordinary responsibilities, the teaching asks for remembrance before reaction. When desire, fear, or pride rises, return to the divine name and choose the action that preserves धर्म.
गुरुचरणाम्बुज-निर्भरभक्तः
संसारादचिराद्भव मुक्तः ।
सेन्द्रियमानस-नियमादेवं
द्रक्ष्यसि निजहृदयस्थं देवम् ॥ 32 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
गुरुचरणाम्बुज - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
निर्भरभक्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
संसारादचिराद्भव - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
मुक्तः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
सेन्द्रियमानस - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
नियमादेवं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
द्रक्ष्यसि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
निजहृदयस्थं - compassion, mercy, or tender grace
देवं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
Translation (भावार्थ):
Oh devotee of the lotus feet of the Guru! May thou be soon free from Samsara. Through disciplined senses and controlled mind, thou shalt come to experience the indwelling Lord of your heart!
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on गुरुचरणाम्बुज (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), निर्भरभक्तः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), संसारादचिराद्भव (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), मुक्तः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita warns जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युः, so this teaching should be heard against the certainty of death rather than as mere moral advice. The Gita also says अन्तवत् तु फलं तेषां, reminding us that finite pursuits give finite results, and मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते, placing surrender to the Lord at the center of freedom.
In daily life, this passage calls for a concrete correction: loosen one attachment, remember the divine name, choose good company, and act humbly before time removes what we took for granted. Skill should become service, affection should become responsibility, and success should remain guided by धर्म.
मूढः कश्चन वैयाकरणो
डुःकृङ्करणाध्ययनधुरीणः ।
श्रीमच्छङ्कर-भगवच्छिष्यैः
बोधित आसीच्छोधित-करणः ॥ 33 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
मूढः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
कश्चन - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
वैयाकरणो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
डुःकृङ्करणाध्ययनधुरीणः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
श्रीमच्छङ्कर - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भगवच्छिष्यैः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
बोधित - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
आसीच्छोधित - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
करणः - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
Translation (भावार्थ):
Thus a silly grammarian lost in rules cleansed of his narrow vision and shown the Light by Shankara's apostles.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on मूढः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), कश्चन (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), वैयाकरणो (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion), डुःकृङ्करणाध्ययनधुरीणः (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The कठ उपनिषद् calls the mature seeker with उत्तिष्ठत जाग्रत प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत, "arise, awake, and learn from the wise." Shankara's Advaita teaching repeatedly makes the same move as this hymn: external learning becomes fruitful only when it produces विवॆक, वैराग्य, and steady inquiry into the Self.
A practical response is to examine one habit of clinging and replace it with remembrance, service, or study. In work, let competence serve others; in family, let love become responsibility rather than possession.
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं
गोविन्दं भज मूढमते ।
नामस्मरणादन्यमुपायं
नहि पश्यामो भवतरणे ॥ 34 ॥
भज गोविन्दं भज गोविन्दं ...
Word Meanings (पदार्थ):
भज - worship, seek, lovingly remember
गोविन्दं - Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings
मूढमते - O deluded mind
नामस्मरणादन्यमुपायं - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
नहि - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
पश्यामो - a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion
भवतरणे - dative form, addressed in reverent offering or salutation
Translation (भावार्थ):
Worship Govinda, worship Govinda, worship Govinda, Oh fool! Other than chanting the Lord's names, there is no other way to cross the life's ocean.
Commentary (अनुसन्धान):
The force of this verse turns on भज (worship, seek, lovingly remember), गोविन्दं (Govinda, the Lord known through the Vedas and protector of beings), मूढमते (O deluded mind), नामस्मरणादन्यमुपायं (a word in the verse's instruction on discrimination, devotion, or dispassion). These terms are not just decorative; they direct the mind toward the exact quality being praised or the exact attachment being corrected. Reading them slowly turns recitation into contemplation, so the sound of the verse also becomes a way of training understanding.
The Gita says मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो, asking the mind itself to turn toward the Lord. That supports this hymn's refrain: the point is not anti-intellectualism, but the transformation of intellect into devotion, discernment, and liberation-oriented action.
This teaching becomes useful when it changes priorities. Instead of postponing wisdom until old age, one can practice humility now, keep noble company now, and make choices that will still feel honorable later.
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