In plain words
He studies the American way with care, but cannot see the way to Kāśī; he searches out the whole of algebra but does not know the size of his own house; every day he goes through his drill but finds it painful to sit in padmāsana; he knows botany in plenty, but the tulasī, its use man does not know.
If you take four tulasī leaves, there is no chance of disease. That is why in Bhārata the tulasī is planted in every home. Through its air, insects and worms do not come, nor infections such as cholera. From ancient times Bhārata has handed down so many sacred ideals. But today people treat all of them with neglect.
Without knowing the nature of Brahman, a brāhmin? Without good qualities, a good man? Without good conduct, a man? tell me, sirs, and I will grant it!
Without good conduct, how can one be a man? Without good qualities, how can one be a good man? One who does not know what Brahman is, how can he be a brāhmin? That is why Vedānta says, “Brahmavid brahmaiva bhavati.” He who knows That becomes Brahman itself.
Students! Among you are those who have spent seven years, nine years, twelve years here. But I hope that those who have spent so long in this peaceful atmosphere, in sacred feeling, will try in every way to keep up this purity in the places outside.