Who Was Sant Dnyaneshwar?

Sant Dnyaneshwar: The Spiritual Luminary of Maharashtra

Sant Dnyaneshwar, also known as Jnaneshwar or Jnandev, is one of the greatest saints, philosophers, and poets in Indian spiritual history. His contributions to Marathi literature, spirituality, and the Bhakti movement remain unparalleled. He lived during the 13th century and is best known for his profound work, the “Dnyaneshwari” (a Marathi commentary on the Bhagavad Gita) and “Amrutanubhav,” a philosophical treatise. Sant Dnyaneshwar’s life and teachings continue to inspire millions across India and the world.

Early Life

Sant Dnyaneshwar was born in 1275 CE in Apegaon near Paithan in present-day Maharashtra, India. His parents, Vitthalpant and Rukmini, were deeply spiritual. Vitthalpant was a Brahmin scholar who had renounced worldly life to become a sanyasi (ascetic). However, upon his guru’s insistence, he returned to family life and married Rukmini. This unconventional act led to societal ostracization.

Dnyaneshwar had three siblings: Nivruttinath, Sopan, and Muktabai, all of whom became revered saints. Despite societal rejection, the siblings remained spiritually committed. Their family endured immense hardships, including social boycott and poverty, but their spiritual pursuits only intensified.

Spiritual Awakening

Sant Dnyaneshwar’s spiritual journey began under the guidance of his elder brother, Sant Nivruttinath, who was a disciple of the great yogi Gahininath of the Nath Sampradaya. Under Nivruttinath’s mentorship, Dnyaneshwar delved into spiritual practices, scriptures, and deep meditation.

His exceptional intellect and divine insight became apparent at a young age. He mastered the Vedas, Upanishads, and other spiritual texts, but his real quest was to make spiritual knowledge accessible to the common people in their native language, Marathi.

The Dnyaneshwari: A Spiritual Masterpiece

At the age of 16, Sant Dnyaneshwar wrote the “Dnyaneshwari,” a detailed commentary on the Bhagavad Gita in Marathi, making the sacred text comprehensible to the common masses. It consists of 18 chapters, covering spiritual, philosophical, and practical aspects of life.

Core Teachings of the Dnyaneshwari:

• Unity of All Beings: Sant Dnyaneshwar emphasized that the same divine consciousness exists in every being, regardless of caste, creed, or gender.
• Self-Realization: He encouraged the pursuit of self-realization through devotion, knowledge, and surrender to God.
• Detachment and Devotion: He taught that material attachment leads to suffering and that surrendering to God brings liberation.

The Dnyaneshwari remains a cornerstone of Marathi spiritual literature and continues to be studied and revered by devotees and scholars.

Amrutanubhav: The Philosophical Treatise

Another of Sant Dnyaneshwar’s great works is “Amrutanubhav,” a philosophical and mystical text exploring the nature of existence, the concept of the divine, and spiritual enlightenment. Written in poetic form, it delves deeply into the relationship between the soul (atman) and the supreme reality (Brahman). This work reveals Dnyaneshwar’s mastery of both Advaita Vedanta and Bhakti philosophy.

Miracles and Legends

Many miraculous stories are attributed to Sant Dnyaneshwar, symbolizing his divine nature:

• Buffalo’s Chant: One of the most famous legends describes how he made a buffalo recite Vedic mantras when challenged by skeptical Brahmins. This event demonstrated that divine knowledge transcends societal limitations.
• Wall Ride: Another popular miracle recounts Dnyaneshwar riding a moving wall to meet the great yogi Changdev, symbolizing his spiritual power.

These miracles, while symbolic, highlight his deep spiritual insight and authority over material existence.

Social Reform and Bhakti Movement

Sant Dnyaneshwar was a key figure in the Bhakti movement, which promoted devotion and spiritual equality. He rejected rigid caste divisions, encouraging spiritual pursuit through love and surrender to God. His teachings inspired generations of saints, including Sant Tukaram, Sant Eknath, and others from the Varkari tradition.

The Wari Pilgrimage

Sant Dnyaneshwar is intimately associated with the famous Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage, where devotees journey to Pandharpur, the sacred abode of Lord Vitthal. His legacy, along with that of Sant Tukaram, continues through this age-old tradition that attracts millions of pilgrims annually.

Final Samadhi at Alandi

In 1296 CE, at the age of just 21, Sant Dnyaneshwar voluntarily entered into Sanjeevan Samadhi (a state of meditative trance leading to oneness with the divine) in Alandi, near Pune. His resting place has become a major spiritual center, drawing thousands of devotees seeking blessings and spiritual upliftment.

Legacy and Influence

Sant Dnyaneshwar’s influence extends far beyond Maharashtra and the Bhakti movement. His literary and spiritual contributions have inspired numerous saints, philosophers, and reformers. His teachings resonate with seekers of truth, emphasizing spiritual wisdom, equality, and the pursuit of self-realization.

Modern Relevance:

• In Literature: His works remain a cornerstone of Marathi literature and philosophy.
• In Spirituality: The path of devotion and self-realization he advocated is still followed by spiritual seekers.
• In Society: His call for social equality and spiritual inclusiveness remains relevant in today’s world.

Conclusion

Sant Dnyaneshwar’s life was a profound journey of spiritual realization, literary brilliance, and social reform. Despite living a short life, his wisdom and compassion left an indelible mark on India’s spiritual and cultural landscape. His legacy endures through his works, the enduring Wari pilgrimage, and the spiritual awakening he inspired in countless souls. Sant Dnyaneshwar’s message of love, knowledge, and unity continues to guide humanity on the path of enlightenment and divine consciousness.