Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
The chapter begins with Arjuna expressing his confusion and reluctance to engage in the battle, which is a metaphor for life's challenges. Krishna responds by highlighting the impermanence of the physical body and the eternal nature of the soul. He explains that the soul (Atman) is beyond birth and death, and thus, Arjuna should not grieve for the physical bodies that will perish.[5]
Krishna introduces the concept of Samkhya, which means knowledge or wisdom, and encourages Arjuna to cultivate a detached and balanced mindset. He emphasizes that true wisdom involves seeing beyond the dualities of pleasure and pain, success and failure, and remaining unaffected by external circumstances.
Shree Krishna expounds on karm yog or the yog of action in this chapter. He explains to Arjun that nobody can remain without action, even for a moment. Bound by their inherent modes of nature, all beings are always engaged in some work. Superior are those who practice karm yog and continue to work diligently to fulfill their responsibilities externally, but internally they are unattached to them. However, the hypocrites display external renunciation but internally dwell upon the objects of their senses.
To strengthen Arjun’s faith in the knowledge He is imparting, Shree Krishna reveals its pristine origin in this chapter. He says, “Arjun, as you are my devotee and a dear friend, I am revealing this supreme science of yog to you. It is the same eternal science that I taught to the Sun God at the beginning of time. And in a continuous tradition, the same knowledge; was passed to the saintly kings.” Arjun wonders how someone who is almost his age could exist so many eons ago. He asks Shree Krishna how is it possible that you gave this knowledge to the Sun God and the others so many years back in time.
In this chapter, Shree Krishna compares karm sanyās yog (the path of renunciation of actions) with karm yog (the path of work in devotion). He says: we can choose either of the two paths, as both lead to the same destination. However, he explains that the renunciation of actions is rather challenging and can only be performed flawlessly by those whose minds are adequately pure. Purification of the mind can be achieved only by working in devotion. Therefore, karm yog is a more appropriate path for the majority of humankind.
I wish to share some thoughts on a profound aspect of the Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 6, which focuses on "Atma Sanyam Yoga," the Yoga of Self-Control. This chapter serves as a guide to the practice of meditation and self-discipline, leading to spiritual growth and enlightenment.
The essence of Atma Sanyam Yoga lies in mastering the mind and senses. Lord Krishna emphasizes that a disciplined mind is crucial for achieving the higher state of consciousness. As we delve into this chapter, we learn that self-control is not merely an external practice; it is an internal journey. It invites us to turn our attention inward, cultivate peace, and establish a harmonious relationship with the self.
Krishna eloquently explains the importance of moderation in all aspects of life—eating, sleeping, working, and recreation. This balance fosters stability and supports our efforts in meditation. Here, the Gita teaches us that extremes can be counterproductive, and a well-structured routine is vital for our spiritual practice.
Give customers a reason to do business with you.
Say something interesting about your business here.
What's something exciting your business offers? Say it here.
Acharya Ishwarananda
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.