Chapter 17 draws a stark contrast between the wise and the 'dull-witted.' It describes the dull-witted as those caught in the cycle of maintaining worldly concerns like 'the body, cattle, children, wealth, and status,' causing them to pursue only Preya, the path of pleasure. The text explicitly states that a dull person without discrimination is incapable of distinguishing between Shreya (the good) and Preya (the pleasant), and is ultimately 'conquered by Preya and embraces it.' In contrast, as Chapter 17 explains, the wise are described as 'courageous, intelligent, wise, and fortunate.' They are likened to a swan (Maral) that can separate pure milk from water, symbolizing their ability to discern and 'cling only to Shreya and always turn away from Preya.'
How does Chapter 17 describe the mindset and actions of a 'dull-witted' person in contrast to a wise one?
📖 Chapter 17