Geethartha Chinthane 110: The Final Journey Toward Death Begins at Birth

Instead of using the term “Panditah,” couldn’t one use “Vidushah”? The word Pandita originates from “Panda Asya Sanjatah,” meaning an enlightened or mature individual. In Kannada, this translates to someone who is “ripe” or “mature.” On the other hand, Vidwans refers to those who are merely knowledgeable.

However, knowledge alone doesn’t equate to maturity. There are those who lecture endlessly without any sense of timing or relevance. These individuals, while considered Vidwans, lack true insight or maturity. A truly “ripe” person experiences no grief. Understanding something is different from realizing it. Knowing involves acquiring knowledge through words, but realization comes from direct experience.

For Panditas (the enlightened), the reality of death is known in advance. They are aware of the impermanence of life through the realization of true wisdom. As a result, they do not grieve. Arjuna, however, spoke both like a Pandita and a fool simultaneously. True fools often imitate the wise, pretending to be enlightened without truly being so. Genuine wisdom eliminates the need for such pretense.

The term “Prajnavada” can be interpreted as “contrary to wisdom” or “opposed to true understanding.” Life, in essence, is a journey toward death that begins at birth. If one can avoid sorrow during the journey, why grieve upon reaching the destination?

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