tattva-vit tu mahā-bāho guṇa-karma-vibhāgayoḥ
guṇā guṇeṣhu vartanta iti matvā na sajjate
tattva-vit — the knower of the Truth;
tu — but;
mahā-bāho — mighty-armed one;
guṇa-karma — from guṇas and karma;
vibhāgayoḥ — distinguish;
guṇāḥ — modes of material nature in the shape of the senses, mind, etc;
guṇeṣhu — modes of material nature in the shape of objects of perception;
vartante — are engaged;
iti — thus;
matvā — knowing;
na — never;
sajjate — becomes attached
This verse talks about someone who truly understands the deeper meaning of life, often referred to as the Absolute Truth. This person realizes that living in the material world can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. They come to recognize that they are part of something greater, which is often represented as the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Krsna. This understanding makes them aware that their true essence is not tied to the physical world, filled with temporary pleasures and distractions.
In simpler terms, imagine you are lost in a crowded city, focused on finding fun activities or material possessions, but suddenly you find a map that shows you your true destination—home, where you feel safe and happy. This person, the 'tattvavit,' sees that all the sensory experiences the world offers are like that temporary crowd; they come and go and do not provide lasting happiness. Instead of getting caught up in chasing after these fleeting pleasures, they choose to engage in what brings them lasting contentment: devotion to Krsna.
Their focus shifts to doing things that connect them to this higher purpose. By engaging in devotional activities—like prayer, meditation, or acts of service—they naturally feel less attached to all the temporary pleasures that once seemed so important. Instead of being overwhelmed by emotions or reactions from the material world, they learn to see things differently. They view whatever happens in life as part of a bigger plan, understanding that even challenges can be seen as lessons or tests that help them grow spiritually.
Therefore, this verse is urging us to look beyond just chasing after what feels good in the moment and instead to search for a deeper connection through devotion. It suggests that true peace and contentment come from recognizing that we are part of a larger existence—the Supreme—instead of being solely focused on our personal desires.