समदु:खसुख: स्वस्थ: समलोष्टाश्मकाञ्चन: ।
तुल्यप्रियाप्रियो धीरस्तुल्यनिन्दात्मसंस्तुति: ॥ २४ ॥
sama-duḥkha-sukhaḥ sva-sthaḥ sama-loṣhṭāśhma-kāñchanaḥ
tulya-priyāpriyo dhīras tulya-nindātma-sanstutiḥ
श्लोक २४: जो दुःख और सुख को समान रूप से देखता है, जो अपने आप में दृढ़ता से स्थित है, जिसके लिए मिट्टी का ढेर, पत्थर और सोना समान मूल्य रखते हैं, जो सुखद और दुःखद दोनों अनुभवों को समान रूप से देखता है, जो धैर्यवान है और आलोचना तथा सराहनाका समान रूप से आदर करता है।
Shloka 24: One who sees sorrow and happiness as equal, who is firmly established in his own self, for whom a lump of earth, a stone and gold hold equal value, who perceives the pleasant and unpleasant equally, who is patient and regards criticism and praise alike;
Verse 14.24 of the Bhagavad Gita presents a profound portrait of a person who has transcended the three gunas (modes of material nature). Sri Krishna describes such an individual as one who remains equanimous in both joy and sorrow, viewing the material world with remarkable detachment. This verse follows Krishna's explanation of how the gunas influence human behavior, now turning to describe the characteristics of those who have risen above these material influences.
The enlightened soul described in this verse maintains perfect equilibrium regardless of external circumstances. To them, a lump of gold holds no more value than a stone or a clod of earth - not because they lack discernment, but because they perceive the temporary nature of all material objects. This person has achieved a state of consciousness where worldly valuations no longer dictate their emotional responses.
Such a person treats praise and criticism with the same steady mind. When praised, they don't become elated; when insulted, they remain unperturbed. This equanimity extends to how they view others as well - they make no distinction between those conventionally considered friends or enemies. This attitude stems not from indifference but from a profound understanding of the underlying spiritual reality that connects all beings.
The verse emphasizes that this transcendental state isn't about becoming emotionally numb. Rather, it's about establishing oneself firmly in self-realization (svastaha), where one's identity is rooted in something permanent beyond the fluctuations of material existence. This person has discovered their eternal spiritual nature that remains unchanged amidst the constant flux of worldly circumstances.
Such detachment doesn't make one inactive or passive. Instead, it allows for action that is free from the bondage of ego-driven desires. When someone is no longer motivated by material gain, praise, or fear of criticism, their actions become pure expressions of duty rather than attempts to bolster their identity or seek validation from others.
This verse beautifully illustrates that true freedom comes not from controlling external conditions but from mastering our internal reactions. The person beyond the gunas doesn't need to manipulate their environment to find peace - they carry their peace with them because they've discovered something deeper and more permanent within themselves. They've realized that happiness dependent on external factors is inherently unstable and temporary.
By describing these qualities, Krishna provides both a goal to aspire toward and a way to recognize genuine spiritual advancement. The path to transcendence isn't measured by supernatural abilities or external displays, but by this profound inner equilibrium that manifests as consistent equanimity in all circumstances. This verse serves as both inspiration and practical guidance for anyone seeking to rise above the influence of the material modes and experience the freedom of spiritual consciousness.
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