In this verse (those whose minds are steeped in egoism ... they do not know my nature.) from the Jnaneshwari, a commentary on the
Bhagavad Gita by Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, Lord Krishna elucidates the consequences
of egoism and the ignorance of His true nature. Let's expand upon the themes
present in this verse:
Egoism (Ahankara): Egoism refers to the state of identifying
oneself solely with the individual self or ego, detached from the broader
reality of existence. When one's consciousness is steeped in egoism, they
perceive themselves as separate from the divine or from others, leading to a
sense of isolation, pride, and self-centeredness.
Struggle in the Currents of Life and Death: Egoism traps
individuals in the cyclical nature of existence, known as Samsara in Hindu
philosophy. Life and death represent the continuous cycle of birth, existence,
death, and rebirth. Those driven by egoism find themselves ensnared in this
cycle, constantly experiencing the ups and downs of life without transcending
to higher states of consciousness.
Ignorance of Krishna's Nature: According to the Bhagavad
Gita and other Hindu scriptures, Krishna represents the Supreme Being, the
ultimate reality, and the essence of existence. Ignorance of Krishna's nature
implies a lack of understanding or realization of the divine essence that
permeates all of creation. When one remains ignorant of this transcendent
reality, they fail to recognize the interconnectedness of all beings and their
essential unity with the divine.
Liberation through Self-Realization: The teachings of
Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita emphasize the path to liberation (moksha) through
self-realization (jnana). By transcending egoism and gaining insight into the
true nature of the self and the universe, individuals can break free from the cycle
of birth and death. This liberation involves recognizing one's inherent
divinity and experiencing union (yoga) with the Supreme.
In summary, this verse underscores the importance of
transcending egoism and gaining knowledge of the divine nature as a means to
attain liberation from the cycles of life and death. It invites individuals to
cultivate self-awareness, humility, and spiritual wisdom in order to realize
their true nature and attain ultimate liberation.