Srimad Bhagavatam — Ekadasha Skandha, Shloka 39
The Song of the Avantī Brāhmaṇa (Avanti-brāhmaṇa-gītā): Mind as the Root of Suffering and Equanimity Amid Insult
अहो एष महासारो धृतिमान् गिरिराडिव । मौनेन साधयत्यर्थं बकवद् दृढनिश्चय: ॥ ३८ ॥ इत्येके विहसन्त्येनमेके दुर्वातयन्ति च । तं बबन्धुर्निरुरुधुर्यथा क्रीडनकं द्विजम् ॥ ३९ ॥
aho eṣa mahā-sāro dhṛtimān giri-rāḍ iva maunena sādhayaty arthaṁ baka-vad dṛḍha-niścayaḥ
Certains se moquaient de lui en disant : « Voyez ce sage si puissant ! Il est ferme comme l’Himalaya ; par le vœu de silence il poursuit son but avec une résolution inébranlable, tel un héron. » D’autres lui lançaient un souffle fétide, et parfois on enchaînait ce brāhmane deux-fois-né, le gardant captif comme un animal apprivoisé.
FAQs
This verse praises purposeful silence as a disciplined means to achieve one’s spiritual aim, highlighting firmness of resolve rather than mere withdrawal.
The heron symbolizes focused patience and determination—remaining still and intent until its goal is achieved—used here as a model for disciplined conduct.
Reduce reactive speech, keep a steady routine of sādhana, and act with clear intention—speaking only what supports truth, peace, and devotion.