Detachment from Worldly Life

1. The whole world is crowded with innumerable human bodies large and small that constantly experience many mental modifications.
2. There are as many different dispositions among people as there are bodies, and none stay the same from the beginning to the end of their lives. It can be seen that nothing remains constant for anyone.
3. Many people have been taken away and forcibly converted to Islam, many have come under Portuguese rule, and many have been put into confinement because of language differences.
4. Maharashtra province has become greatly diminished in size, many people have become entangled in politics, and many have become so involved with world;y affairs that they do not even have time to take meals.
5. Many have become involved in the business of war and are intoxicated with it to such an extent that day and night they are discussing only that.
6. Businessmen have become so involved in business that they have no time for anything else. Everyone has become obsessed with only thinking about earning money in life.
7. There are many differing opinions regarding various philosophies, and many sectarian and contrary beliefs and teachings have proliferated all over the earth.
8. There are many followers of Shiva and many followers of Vishnu that have been carried away by the various teachings of the many different sects to such an extent that it has caused great confusion for everyone.
9. Many people have become devotees of passion and sexual gratification. Who among them bothers to look and see what is proper and what is improper?
10. In all of this commotion, confusion continues increasing among the followers of the various sects to such an extent that their teachings cannot be tolerated by those who are followers of the Vedas.
11. In all of the confusion many people have become attracted to singing the praises of God, but who among them actually gains the Knowledge of Brahman?
12. For these reasons true Knowledge (Jnana) is very rare, and it is not easy to become virtuous in this world. However, for one who inquires into his true nature, everything is easily known.
13. It is very difficult for one to express in words what is understood through inquiry. When trying to express it, the limitations of speech often act as a hindrance rather than a help.
14. In trying to express that understanding, the one with a sharp intellect will not let a single opportunity slip by. A person who is wise, logical, and intelligent is liked by all.
15. Such a person knows many things by heart and is easily able to utilize appropriate quotes and examples whenever needed, and provides a straight path with the power of his Knowledge.
16. The power of such a one uses many means to awaken others. He knows the inner-mind of all, and after hearing him speak, people develop a longing to listen to him again.
17. Such a person understands many various opinions and is able to remove differences in opinion by speaking from direct experience, He knows how to guide aspirants properly in giving up useless practices and beliefs.
18. His statements are appropriate and penetrating. He always sees the circumstances of various situations and is able to walk away from a situation unconcerned with a disinterested attitude.
19. Such a person speaks from direct experience and then freely gets up and moves on without attachment. Listeners begin to develop an interest in what he says. Leaving behind many types of spiritual practice, they take refuge in his guidance.
20. He does not cause trouble for anyone and no vile qualities can be found in him. His attire and appearance is that of a simple and humble person.
21. He accomplishes many things in secrecy but his nature is such that he comes across as a meek person and does not take the credit. He is beyond the limitations of success, fame or courage.
22. He motivates people at various places to take up devotion and singing the praises of God while remaining aloof. He is not touched by the envy and jealousy that entangles others.
23. He goes to stay at his own place where he is not seen by others, all the while remaining devoted to caring for everyone.
24. He is disciplined to be able to live in difficult places among difficult people, and he is much sought after by the people of the world.
25. Such a person is not troubled by anyone, and he does not make negative comments about anyone. He gets people to work together and has them take part in the relevant politics.
26. He increases the number of people gathering together beyond measure, with his power on earth that works in hidden ways.
27. People are attracted to him and gather around him, coming from many places. He spreads the disposition of spirituality to people everywhere.
28. He spreads the enthusiasm for worship and devotion, and his greatness increases from place to place. With his experience of the Self he can free many people.
29. Like this, he has many skillful means of helping people to become wise, and everywhere he goes people gain the experience of the Self.
30. Be well known before passing away so that your coming into this world is made worthwhile, says Ramdas. I have spoken about this in a natural way to indicate this to you.