Chapter 13: Kshetra-kshetrajna-vibhaga-yoga – Distinction between Object Field and its Knower: Verse 8
अमानित्वमदम्भित्वमहिंसा क्षान्तिरार्जवम्।
आचार्योपासनं शौचं स्थैर्यमात्मविनिग्रह: ॥
amānitvam-adambhitvamahiṃsā
kṣāntir-ārjavam
ācāryopāsanaṃ śaucaṃ
sthairyam-ātma-vinigraha: – 13.8
Sublimation of pride, non-ostentation, non-hurting, tolerance or forgiveness, straight-forwardness, adoring and serving the Teacher, cleanliness (of body and mind), stability and steadfastness, self-control;–
Chapter 13: Kshetra-kshetrajna-vibhaga-yoga – Distinction between Object Field and its Knower - Verse 8
Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha
After explaining briefly kshetra and Kshetrajna, Krishna discusses knowledge. Knowledge is not a simple mental or intellectual product like thought, emotion or even a mathematical formula. Unlike sensory knowledge, which is objective, spiritual knowledge is a cultural outcome, born of inner refinement and enlightenment. It follows an all-fold dedicated pursuit. Krishna presents a set of qualities, which together form true spiritual knowledge.
First of them is humility, not smitten by undue selfimportance or self-pride. The seeker should follow the respectable path, but not look for honour or respect from others. Avoid ostentation. Non-hurtingness and tolerance are indispensable. So too is straightforwardness.
Render loving service to the Teacher, regarding it as true worship. Cleanliness and hygiene are imperative. One should grow in stability, a serene unshakeability. Self-discipline is an integral part of spiritual knowledge.
