Bhaj Govindam Verse 17

Bhaj Govindam  Though written by another disciple, this verse is a direct continuation of the previous verses. It is like the last verses flows directly into this verse. They talk about the then prevalent exploitation and dominance of Sanathan Dharma by a few, and how people were being mislead. This glorious way of life was wrapped up in layers of blind rituals and taboos, to a great extent it still is.  There goes a story - That during the prayer, a family had to tie a black cat which roamed around their house, to keep it away from the alter. However, generations later, because the true reason for tying the cat was lost, this actually became a part of the family ritual, they considered it not possible to complete the prayer without a black cat, believing that the cat is essential for this prayer, they would actually get a black cat specially for the occasion and tie it for the prayers.  This is exactly what is happening today. When the masses behave like illiterates and find it beyond their ability to read the original scriptures and understand the deeper meanings, what else can be expected, but the downfall of this eternal way of life. Guru Subodhaji is also saying just like old age (verse 15), coloured robes (verse 16), pilgrimage, penance and charity (Verse 17) do not directly translate into a desire free, liberated state. Here, he is NOT against pilgrimages, fasting/penance or charity. Here, Karma Kandh is NOT being condemned, but the ignorance with which it is being done is being ridiculed. He is emphasising, that when these holy endeavours are under taken, a clarity is needed on;Who is doing this?Who should get the benefit?Why are we doing this?How this should be done?The Final Test

Verse 17

कुरुते गङ्गासागरगमनं,  व्रतपरिपालनमथवा दानम्। ज्ञानविहिनः सर्वमतेन,  मुक्तिं न भजति जन्मशतेन॥१७॥

किसी भी धर्म के अनुसार ज्ञान रहित रह कर गंगासागर जाने से, व्रत रखने से और दान देने से सौ जन्मों में भी मुक्ति नहीं प्राप्त हो सकती है॥१७॥

Kurute Gangasagaragamanam Vrataparipalanamathava Danam Jnanavihinah Sarvamatena Bhajati Na Muktim Janmasatena

The Seventeenth verse said to me - Shruti Says