Chapter 5, Verse 18
विद्याविनयसम्पन्ने ब्राह्मणे गवि हस्तिनि | शुनि चैव श्वपाके च पण्डिता: समदर्शिन: ॥18॥
vidyā-vinaya-sampanne brāhmaṇe gavi hastini | śuni caiva śvapāke ca paṇḍitāḥ sama-darśinaḥ
"The truly learned ones, by virtue of spiritual knowledge, look with equal vision upon a Brahmin endowed with learning and humility, a cow, an elephant, a dog, and even an outcaste dog-eater."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 5.18 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 5.18 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
This verse defines 'Sama-darshana' or equal vision. A person in Krishna consciousness does not see the external dress—whether it is the body of a scholar, an animal, or a social outcaste. Instead, they perceive the presence of the Paramatman (Supersoul) and the Atman (individual soul) in every living entity. This state of equanimity is the hallmark of genuine wisdom (Vidya) combined with humility (Vinaya), indicating that true knowledge dissolves the ego and social prejudice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 5.18?
The truly learned ones, by virtue of spiritual knowledge, look with equal vision upon a Brahmin endowed with learning and humility, a cow, an elephant, a dog, and even an outcaste dog-eater.