Chapter 6
Explanation about Meditation
Context: In this chapter, Shri Krishna continues to compare Karm Yog (the path of action) and Karm Sanyas Yog (the path of renunciation), affirming that Karm Yog is more suitable for most people. He explains the qualities of a Yogi and highlights the connection between a Sanyasi (renunciant) and a Yogi.
This chapter also includes an important question from Arjun, a question that many of us might have. Before going into the details, it's important to remember the meaning of Yog: Union. This means the merging of individual consciousness with divine consciousness, or in simpler terms, the alignment of the human mind with the divine presence.
Verse 1 and 2
Shri Krishna explains that true renunciation involves internal detachment from the results of actions, not just outward displays or rituals. He says that Sanyas (renunciation) and Yog (spiritual union) are connected. When someone gives up material desires within, they become like a Yogi, embodying internal sanyas. Therefore, internal renunciation of desires is the same as being a true sanyasi.
Verse 3 to 9
A person free from attachment to sensory objects and the results of actions is considered accomplished in Yog. Shri Krishna explains that the mind can elevate or degrade one's state. If one masters the mind, it becomes an ally; if not, it acts as an adversary. A Yogi who controls their mind treats friends and foes, favourable and unfavourable situations with impartiality, seeing both positive and negative experiences with equanimity.
To be proficient in Yog, it is essential to act without attachment. For a Yogi with this mindset, meditation is of utmost importance.
Verse 10 to 18
Shri Krishna explains that those seeking Yog should practice continuous meditation. He describes the technique: sit in a secluded place with an erect posture, focus on the tip of the nose, and control your thoughts and actions. Keep the mind calm, fearless, and maintain celibacy in both body and mind.
Meditation brings lasting peace, the presence of God, and divine blessings. Balancing diet, sleep, and activities helps alleviate sorrows through Yog, which is meditating in the name of God. Being a perfect Yogi comes from following these principles.
Verse 19-32
The Yogi must detach from desires, practice continuous meditation, and control thoughts patiently. When the mind wanders, it should be gently refocused. Through disciplined practice, the Yogi achieves supreme peace and bliss, with the mind constantly on God. Shri Krishna describes the outcomes for a perfect Yogi: balanced and calm in all circumstances, detached from external pleasures, and focused on God. They maintain equilibrium in all situations, achieving divine bliss. A perfect Yogi sees no outcome as good or bad; they see the divine in all things. Their minds are serene. Shri Krishna praises them as Yogis who view all beings impartially and empathize with others' joys and sorrows.
Verse 33 to 45
In this context, Arjuna raises practical queries concerning the challenges that humans encounter during meditation.
Arjuns Question 7: Arjuna questions the challenges of meditation, noting the mind's restlessness and comparing it to the wind. He asks how to achieve the calm and control needed for meditation.
Shri Krishna’s Answer 7: Shri Krishna agrees, acknowledging the difficulty of controlling the mind. However, he assures that with persistent practice and detachment, one can master the mind. Continuous effort and dedication will lead to achieving Yog, marked by disciplined and controlled thoughts.
Arjuns Question 8: Arjuna asks what happens to someone who starts practicing Yog with sincere faith but cannot fully succeed due to an unstable mind. This person finds neither fulfilment in the material world nor access to the eternal realm.
Shri Krishna’s Answer 8: Shri Krishna assures that those who sincerely strive for spiritual progress face no loss. He explains that these individuals will be reborn into a supportive environment, allowing them to continue their spiritual journey from where they left off.
Verse 46 and 47
Shri Krishna emphasizes that being a Yogi, one who seeks a deep connection with God, is superior to being a Tapasvi (ascetic), Gyani (seeker of knowledge), or Karmi (performer of rituals). He states that among Yogis, those with unwavering faith and devotion (Bhakti Yog) hold the highest rank.
Conclusion:
In this chapter, Shri Krishna compares Karm Yog and Karm Sanyas Yog, asserting that Karm Yog is more accessible for most people due to its practicality. He outlines the process of meditation and the steps to attain the ultimate state. Shri Krishna concludes that a Yogi deeply devoted to him (Bhakti Yog) holds the highest stature.
The next six chapters will explore Bhakti Yog in depth, providing a comprehensive understanding of this path.