Shloka 29
Sat-saṅga, Dharma-Nīti, Karma-Phala, Śauca, and Vairāgya
Overcoming Grief
अन्यथा शास्त्रगार्भिण्या धिया धीरोर्ऽथमीहते / स्वामिवत्प्राक्कृतं कर्म विदधाति तदन्यथा
anyathā śāstragārbhiṇyā dhiyā dhīror'thamīhate / svāmivatprākkṛtaṃ karma vidadhāti tadanyathā
अन्यथा, शास्त्रगर्भित बुद्धीने युक्त धीर पुरुष खरा अर्थ शोधतो; पण पूर्वसंस्कारजन्य कर्म स्वामीसारखे त्याला त्याच्या विरुद्धच वागवते।
Lord Vishnu (in discourse to Garuda/Vinata-putra)
Concept: Even the wise, guided by śāstra, may be compelled by prior habitual karma; liberation requires transforming saṃskāras.
Vedantic Theme: Saṃskāra-vāsanā as binding momentum; need for abhyāsa and vairāgya so buddhi can govern rather than be governed.
Application: Use śāstra, satsanga, and disciplined practice to weaken compulsive patterns; build new saṃskāras through repeated right action and devotion.
Primary Rasa: shanta
Secondary Rasa: karuna
Related Themes: Garuda Purana: repeated stress on saṃskāra and karma as drivers of rebirth and experience
FAQs
This verse says a śāstra-formed intellect helps a person aim at the true goal, even when inner habits and karmic momentum pull the mind elsewhere.
Yes. It compares past-formed karma to a “master,” indicating that ingrained karmic tendencies can redirect a person away from what they know is right.
Pair right understanding with disciplined practice: reduce harmful habits, repeat dharmic actions until they become your new “master,” and use śāstra-based reflection to stay aligned with your true aims.