8' - Bhaja Govindam: Śaṅkara's Song of Self-Realization

Bhaja Govindam, a 31-verse poem by Adi Shankara, is a call to spiritual awakening. The text, explained through commentary and introduction, critiques worldly attachments to wealth, pleasure, and social status, highlighting their impermanence. It advocates for self-knowledge and devotion to Govinda (Vishnu) as the path to liberation (moksha). The poem uses metaphors and analogies to illustrate the fleeting nature of life and the importance of inner transformation. Different verses are attributed to Shankara's disciples, showcasing diverse perspectives within the Advaita Vedanta tradition.