Srimad Bhagavatam — Ekadasha Skandha, Shloka 17
The Song of the Avantī Brāhmaṇa (Avanti-brāhmaṇa-gītā): Mind as the Root of Suffering and Equanimity Amid Insult
अर्थस्य साधने सिद्धे उत्कर्षे रक्षणे व्यये । नाशोपभोग आयासस्त्रासश्चिन्ता भ्रमो नृणाम् ॥ १७ ॥
arthasya sādhane siddhe utkarṣe rakṣaṇe vyaye nāśopabhoga āyāsas trāsaś cintā bhramo nṛṇām
Sa paghanap, pagkuha, pagpaparami, pag-iingat, paggastos, pagkawala, at pag-enjoy ng yaman, ang tao’y dumaranas ng hirap, takot, pag-aalala, at pagkalito.
FAQs
This verse explains that wealth brings distress in acquisition, increase, protection, spending, loss, and even enjoyment—resulting in fatigue, fear, anxiety, and delusion.
King Yadu questioned the Avadhūta’s inner peace; the Avadhūta taught that detachment from wealth and its endless burdens is a key reason for genuine tranquility.
Use wealth as a tool for dharma and service, keep simple needs, avoid obsessive accumulation, and reduce fear by remembering that peace depends on inner devotion—not possessions.