When Adi Shankara was residing at Varanasi with his pupils, he came across a scholar, who was immersed in complicated rules of grammar. When asked why he had taken up this intensive study, he replied that it would easily fetch him a few pieces of silver. "If I am designed a pandit, I can go to the home of some big zamindars (landlords), and hope to receive alms and offerings from them for the upkeep of my large family," he said. Shankara then advised him appropriately and charged him with self-confidence and courage. Returning to his hermitage, Shankara wrote a verse summarising the advice he gave the poor scholar thus: Bhaja Govindam, bhaja Govindam, bhaja Govindam, moodha mate. Samprapte sannihithe kale, nahi nahi rakshati dukrun karane (Praise God, Praise God, Praise God, you foolish mind! When death approaches, rules of grammar cannot save you). The study of these verses and the inspiration derived from them will promote discrimination and detachment, and thus, prepare the mind for the vision of the Supreme.

- Divine Discourse, May 21, 1973.