Bhagavad Gita – Chapter 6: Self-Control and Meditation

Self-Control and Meditation

In the previous chapter, Arjuna had understood the true meaning of renunciation, the depth of detachment. He was inspired to act without attachment to the fruits of his actions, but the restlessness of the mind stood as a major question. Sensing Arjuna's distress, Lord Krishna now prepared to impart the teachings on the path of self-control and meditation.

The Method of Dhyana Yoga

In the dust-laden aura of the battlefield, Lord Krishna looked at Arjuna with a calm, steady mind. There were questions in Arjuna's eyes, worry, and a glimpse of the storm raging within his mind. At that moment, Krishna began to explain the method of Dhyana Yoga to Arjuna. He said, "Arjuna, choose a quiet place, where there is solitude and where there is nothing to disturb the mind. Spread a clean seat, preferably of Kusha grass, or deer skin is also suitable." He further said, "Sit steady, keeping the body, neck, and head in a straight line. Fix your gaze on the tip of your nose. Calm your mind and be free from any kind of fear." There was a rustling of banyan leaves in the air, as if nature itself was listening intently to Krishna's words. Arjuna absorbed his Guru's words in his heart, the vision of a yogi's peaceful life filled his consciousness.

Arjuna asked, "But O Keshav, the mind is extremely restless, swift as the wind! How can it be controlled?" Krishna smiled and said, "Arjuna, through practice and detachment. Just as a skilled charioteer controls unruly horses with reins, so can the mind be controlled through practice. Detachment means non-attachment to worldly objects. Gradually, keep practicing, and the mind will become calm."

The Way to Control the Mind

Krishna explained to Arjuna that controlling the mind is a continuous process, a battle fought within oneself. He said, "For one whose mind is controlled, the path of self-knowledge becomes easy. But for one whose mind is not controlled, this path is difficult." Krishna further said, "He who neither eats too much nor fasts completely, who neither sleeps too much nor stays awake, for him, Yoga destroys suffering." He inspired Arjuna to live a balanced life, a life filled with restraint and self-control. Arjuna heard these words of the Lord, and a new ray of hope dawned in his mind. He felt that he too could control his mind, become calm and steady.

Krishna said in a compassionate voice, "Arjuna, do not despair. Keep practicing. I am with you. Whoever walks on my path with faith, I surely attain them." Arjuna bowed his head at Krishna's feet, receiving his blessings. He became convinced that with the Lord's grace, he could conquer even this difficult path.

The Life of a Yogi

Krishna, describing the life of a yogi to Arjuna, said, "A yogi is one who remains equal in pleasure and pain, honor and dishonor, cold and heat. He sees earth, stone, and gold with an equal eye. He maintains an equal attitude towards friends, enemies, and indifferent persons." Krishna told Arjuna that the life of a yogi is a penance, a spiritual discipline, which leads him to the ultimate truth. The mind of a true yogi always remains calm and steady, and he remains unaffected by the sorrows of the world. Krishna inspired Arjuna to experience that supreme bliss which is attained through self-control and meditation. He also explained to Arjuna that the mind can be controlled and the Supreme Being can be realized only through continuous practice. Arjuna resolved that he would control his mind by following the path of Yoga and attain the Supreme Being. At the end of this chapter, a new hope and enthusiasm filled Arjuna's mind. He was eager to learn more about the Supreme Being in the next chapter.