bhaja govindaṁ bhaja govindaṁ
govindaṁ bhaja mūḍha-mate |
samprāpte sannihite kāle
nahi nahi rakṣati ḍukr̥ṅkaraṇe ||
The verse is a part of a popular devotional composition called "Bhaja Govindam" written by Adi Shankaracharya. This verse is a call to awaken spiritual wisdom and realization amidst the temporary and ever-changing nature of the world.
It is basically a beautiful hymn written in simple Sanskrit in twelve stanzas. That's why it is also called 'Dwadash Manjarika'. In 'Bhaj Govindam', Shankaracharya has preached to worship Lord Krishna (Govind) without falling in love with the world.
That's why 'Bhaj Govindam' is also called 'Mohmudgar' i.e. 'Illusion-eliminator Mudgar or Mongri'. Shankaracharya says that all the acquired knowledge and arts of a man will be of no use in the end, only Hari Naam will be useful.
Worship Govinda, Worship Govinda, Worship Govinda. Oh fool! Rules of Grammar will not save you at the time of your death.
This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking the divine in the form of Govinda (Lord Krishna) and warns against becoming attached to the material world. It advises that when the time of departure from this world arrives, worldly possessions and attachments won't be able to offer protection. Instead, focusing on the spiritual path and seeking the divine will provide true liberation and eternal solace.
The message of this verse is to prioritize spiritual pursuits and cultivate detachment from transient material possessions. The term "Govinda" refers to Lord Krishna, who is seen as the divine source of all knowledge, wisdom, and salvation.
This verse beautifully encapsulates the essence of the entire "Bhaja Govindam" composition, which is a powerful spiritual text that guides individuals to look beyond the illusion of materialism and realize the ultimate truth.