42. Smartness Outsmarted

One day, a devotee sought to engage His Holiness Sri Chandrashekhara Bharati Mahaswamiji in a long, insightful conversation. Hoping to spark a profound discussion, he believed that introducing a thoughtful subject would draw the revered sage into a detailed dialogue. With this intention, the devotee approached His Holiness and humbly requested, “I beseech Your Holiness to bless me with a thorough explanation of a particular verse from the Vivekachudamani.”

The sage, with his characteristic calmness, inquired, “Which verse is it? Recite it.”

The disciple eagerly read the verse aloud. The Jagadguru then asked, “Which part of this verse do you find difficult to understand?”

“I understand its meaning,” the devotee responded. “However, I long for Your Holiness to offer a more detailed exposition.”

His Holiness, with serene wisdom, replied, “The teachings of our revered Acharya, Sri Shankara, are clear and self-evident in this verse. It is neither necessary nor appropriate to add anything to it. The verse speaks for itself. Simply contemplate and enjoy it as it is.”

In that moment, the devotee’s well-intentioned plan to elicit a lengthy discourse had failed miserably. It became clear that when approaching a great soul with genuine thirst for knowledge and openhearted honesty, one is sure to gain profound insight. However, when driven by hidden motives or agendas, such efforts are destined to fall short. ❃❃❃❃