Sloka 24
Sloka 24
Original Text:
सहनं सर्वदुःखानामप्रतीकारपूर्वकम् । चिन्ताविलापरहितं सा तितिक्षा निगद्यते ॥ २४ ॥
Certainly! Let's examine the given sloka.
- **Transliteration:**
Sahanaṃ sarvaduḥkhānāmapratīkārapūrvakam | Chintāvilāparahitaṃ sā titikṣā nigadyate || 24 ||
- **Translation:**
Enduring all hardships without seeking any remedies, without anxiety or lamentation, is what is known as 'titikṣā' or forbearance.
- **Word Meanings:**
* sahanaṃ - enduring, bearing * sarva - all * duḥkhānām - of sorrows or hardships * apratīkāra - without remedy or counteraction * pūrvakam - preceding or beginning with * chintā - anxiety, worry * vilāpa - lamentation, complaint * rahitaṃ - devoid of, free from * sā - that * titikṣā - forbearance, patience * nigadyate - is called, is said to be
- **Commentary:**
In this verse, the concept of 'titikṣā' or forbearance is elaborated as a key virtue in the practice of spiritual discipline. The essence of 'titikṣā' is the ability to bear difficulties and discomforts with a stoic mindset, without giving in to retaliation, complaints, or agitation. This virtue is particularly emphasized in Vedantic philosophy where external circumstances are often seen as transitory, and inner tranquility is prioritized.
The sloka outlines two key aspects of true forbearance: first, the absence of seeking solutions or resisting the discomforts (apratīkārapūrvakam), indicating a level of acceptance; and second, the absence of mental agitation such as anxiety and complaint (chintāvilāparahitam), highlighting emotional resilience and composure.
Developing 'titikṣā' is seen as essential for anyone on a spiritual path because it helps one maintain focus and inner calm irrespective of the evolving external situations. It aligns with the broader Vedantic view of life where enduring life's ups and downs equanimously contributes to one's spiritual maturity and liberation.
Further Readings: