It is meant to make people gradually understand the downside of over-indulging in things of the world, while stressing the importance of attaining Self-Realization.
When one reads Bhaja Govindam, it may seem dismal, bleak, cheerless and gloomy for some. It provokes wise thinking and asks men and women to enquire about important questions such as “Who am I ? Why am I here in this life ? Why am I acquiring wealth, family, fame, power etc., but end up not having any enduring peace of mind ? What is the Truth ? What is the purpose of life ?” It reveals the hollowness of mere pleasure seeking, the misery of disease and old age and the typical selfish nature of people. It implores a person to think about a higher goal in life, of lasting happiness. Also sung as a Bhajan (devotional song), this poetic garland strewn with pearls of knowledge contains the essence of Vedanta. However, the depth of wisdom and practical advice offered in this great work is of immense value and help to any sincere spiritual seeker. It is classified as a a primer to the major Works.
I have benefited very much from Swami Chinmayananda’s Works.īhaja Govindam is one of the minor compositions of Sri Sankara.
The English translations for the Verses provided here were rendered by Sri Swami Chinmayananda in his commentary on Bhaja Govindam. Bhaja Govindam offers ample guidance in both these areas. Sri Ramana Maharshi tells his devotees that Abhyasa and Vairagya (Practice and Dispassion) are both important for spiritual advancement and self-improvement. Due to Sri Sankara’s compassion and kindness, then and there emerged this flow of beautiful but profound poetry from Him to lead the devotee in the right path. Sri Adi Sankaracharya came across an old grammarian who was strenuously memorizing all the complex rules of Grammar, instead of devoting his time in contemplating on God and meditating. The story behind this great work is this. Bhaja Govindam was rendered extempore by Jagadguru Sri Adi Sankaracharya.
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