Shloka 4
अलर्कोपाख्यानम् — Indriya-Nigraha and Yogic Victory
Mahābhārata 14.30
स्थितस्य वृक्षमूलेषु तस्य चिन्ता बभूव ह । उत्सृज्य सुमहत्कर्म सूक्ष्म प्रति महामते,महामते! वे बड़े-बड़े कर्मोंका आरम्भ त्यागकर एक वृक्षके नीचे जा बैठे और सूक्ष्मतत््वकी खोजके लिये इस प्रकार चिन्ता करने लगे
sthitasya vṛkṣamūleṣu tasya cintā babhūva ha | utsṛjya sumahat karma sūkṣmaṃ prati mahāmate ||
As he sat down at the roots of trees, a deep concern arose in him. Setting aside the undertaking of great outward works, the wise one turned his mind toward the subtle truth, reflecting inwardly in search of what is most essential.
समुद्र उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse contrasts external, grand undertakings with inward discernment: true wisdom may require laying aside impressive actions to pursue subtle truth through reflection and self-inquiry.
The speaker describes a wise person who, instead of beginning major works, sits beneath trees and becomes absorbed in thoughtful concern—turning attention toward subtle principles and deeper understanding.