Srimad Bhagavatam — Panchama Skandha, Shloka 29
Ṛṣabhadeva Instructs His Sons: Tapasya, Mahātmā-Sevā, and Cutting the Heart-Knot
जडान्धमूकबधिरपिशाचोन्मादकवदवधूतवेषोऽभिभाष्यमाणोऽपि जनानां गृहीतमौनव्रतस्तूष्णीं बभूव ॥ २९ ॥
jaḍāndha-mūka-badhira-piśāconmādakavad-avadhūta-veṣo ’bhibhāṣyamāṇo ’pi janānāṁ gṛhīta-mauna-vratas tūṣṇīṁ babhūva.
بعد أن اتخذ هيئة الأوَدهوتا، مرّ الربّ رِشبھديفا بين الناس كأنه أعمى وأصمّ وأبكم، كحجرٍ خامد، أو شبح، أو مجنون. ومع أن الناس نادوه بتلك الأسماء، ظلّ ممسكًا بنذر الصمت ولم يُكلّم أحدًا.
The word avadhūta refers to one who does not care for social conventions, particularly the varṇāśrama-dharma. However, such a person may be situated fully within himself and be satisfied with the Supreme Personality of Godhead, on whom he meditates. In other words, one who has surpassed the rules and regulations of varṇāśrama-dharma is called avadhūta. Such a person has already surpassed the clutches of māyā, and he lives completely separate and independent.
FAQs
To avoid social entanglement and disturbance, he concealed his inner realization by adopting an avadhūta-like guise and keeping silence even when addressed.
The verse presents silence as a protective discipline—helping a renunciant remain undisturbed by public interaction and maintain inner absorption.
Practice restraint in speech, avoid unnecessary arguments and social drama, and cultivate inner steadiness rather than seeking recognition or approval.