Verse (Roman transliteration)
Agre Vahnih Prishthe Bhaanuh,
Raatrau Chubukasamarpita Jaanuh
Karatalabhiksha Stharutalavaasah,
Tadapi Na Munchatyaashaapaasah
Translation
Fire in front, sun behind, sleeping with knees pressed to chin at night, begging food with cupped hands, sleeping under trees — yet the noose of desire does not loosen.
The teaching
Even extreme ascetics — those who have voluntarily embraced physical hardship and renounced material comfort — can be trapped by subtler desires: the desire for spiritual attainment, for respect, for liberation itself. Desire is not only about money or pleasure. It can attach to anything, including the pursuit of its own elimination.
Living this today
Illustrative example: Imagine missing a carefully planned morning routine. Instead of treating the day as ruined, choose the one practice that would still help. The routine can support your life without becoming a test of your worth.