Withdrawing external contacts, concentrating between the brows, equalizing the outgoing and incoming breaths, the yogi restrains senses and mind.
Krishna describes yogic breath control, symbolizing mastery over inner life. This disciplined focus, visualized between the brows, represents the yogi’s commitment to transcending bodily limitations and attuning with Brahman.
With senses, mind, and intellect subdued, the sage, devoted to liberation, free from desire, fear, and anger, is forever liberated.
The ideal of liberation is personified in the sage who renounces fear, desire, and anger. Krishna introduces the concept of freedom from emotions as essential to realizing one’s unchanging inner self.
Knowing Me, the Supreme Lord of all sacrifices and penances, and the friend of all beings, one attains peace.
Krishna concludes with the idea that understanding him as the friend of all beings and lord of sacrifices brings peace. He emphasizes selfless devotion as the route to harmony, directing Arjuna to approach him as a protector and guide.
Chapter 6
One who performs duties without depending on the fruits of action is both a renunciate and a yogi, not one who is without fire or action.
The opening shloka sets the foundation of karma yoga, emphasizing the importance of performing duties without attachment. It challenges the conventional notion of renunciation, presenting a deeper interpretation of true renunciation as inner detachment.
What is called renunciation, know that to be yoga, O Pandava; for one cannot become a yogi without renouncing desires.
Krishna highlights that yoga and renunciation are inherently connected. This shloka invites reflection on the mental discipline required to balance renunciation with engagement in life’s duties.
For a sage who seeks to ascend to yoga, action is said to be the means; for one who has ascended, calmness is said to be the means.
For beginners, action serves as a preparatory path to yoga. Krishna implies that serenity can only come after mastering selfless action, introducing a progressive journey toward spiritual growth.