Bhaja Govindam – Sloka 26: Kāmaṁ Krodhaṁ Lobhaṁ Moham
What prevents us from discovering who we truly are?
In this episode of Hari Kavi Explains, we reflect on the twenty-sixth sloka of Bhaja Govindam, where Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya identifies four powerful forces that cloud our understanding: desire, anger, greed, and delusion.
Shankaracharya asks us to gradually free ourselves from these influences and turn our attention inward with the fundamental question: “Who am I?” This inquiry is not about our name, profession, relationships, or social identity, but about discovering the deeper Self that exists beyond these temporary definitions.
The verse also offers a strong warning. Without Ātma-jñāna, or knowledge of the Self, we remain trapped in ignorance and the suffering it creates. The imagery of hell emphasizes the consequences of a life governed by uncontrolled desire, anger, greed, and delusion.
The teaching therefore directs us toward self-examination. As these inner disturbances lose their hold over us, the mind becomes clearer, allowing the search for our true nature to begin.
In this episode:
- Original Sanskrit recitation
- Meaning and reflection on Sloka 26
- Understanding desire, anger, greed, and delusion
- Exploring the fundamental inquiry: “Who am I?”
- The importance of Ātma-jñāna, or knowledge of the Self
- Practical insights for developing greater self-awareness and inner clarity
Host: Hari Kavi
🎵 Listen to the full Sloka (Music): https://youtu.be/LZ-xUuXWddU
Learn more: https://shikshakdp.com