Shloka 48
Adhyāya 42 — Mahābhūta–Indriya–Adhyātma-Vyavasthā
Brahmā’s Instruction on Elements and Faculties
इन्द्रियाणां निरोधेन सर्वेषां विषयैषिणाम् । मुनेर्जनपदत्यागादध्यात्माग्नि: समिध्यते
indriyāṇāṃ nirodhena sarveṣāṃ viṣayaiṣiṇām | muner janapada-tyāgād adhyātmāgniḥ samidhyate ||
Vāyu dit : En réfrénant tous les sens qui courent après les objets des sens, et par le retrait du sage loin du tumulte des lieux peuplés, le feu intérieur de la connaissance spirituelle s’allume et resplendit davantage.
वायुदेव उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse teaches that spiritual illumination increases through two linked disciplines: (1) restraining the senses that chase pleasures, and (2) stepping away from social noise and distractions. Together they kindle the ‘inner fire’ of adhyātma—self-knowledge and inward steadiness—supporting ethical living and clarity of judgment.
Vāyu (the Wind-god) is speaking and instructing about ascetic practice. He explains how a muni’s deliberate control of the senses and withdrawal from populated places strengthens inner spiritual power and insight, presenting a model of disciplined renunciation within the broader Mahābhārata discourse on dharma.