Bhagvad Gita - Chapter: 6 Dhyana Yogah

यदा विनियतं चित्तमात्मन्येवावतिष्ठते |
नि:स्पृह: सर्वकामेभ्यो युक्त इत्युच्यते तदा ||18||

When the controlled mind rests in the self alone, free from all desires, then one is said to be steadfast in yoga.

Niṣprīhaḥ: Free from desire.
Yukta: Steady or engaged.

This verse explains the state of yoga as one where the mind is steady and desires are absent. It shifts the focus from external actions to internal absorption, showcasing the essence of self-realization.

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यथा दीपो निवातस्थो नेङ्गते सोपमा स्मृता |
योगिनो यतचित्तस्य युञ्जतो योगमात्मन: ||19||

As a lamp in a windless place does not flicker, this simile is used for the yogi with a disciplined mind practicing yoga.

Dīpa: Lamp or light.
Nivāta: Windless or calm place.

The analogy of a lamp in a windless place beautifully illustrates the unwavering mind of a yogi. This imagery captures the stillness achieved through disciplined focus.

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यत्रोपरमते चित्तं निरुद्धं योगसेवया |
यत्र चैवात्मनात्मानं पश्यन्नात्मनि तुष्यति ||20||

When the mind is completely withdrawn through yoga practice, one realizes the self and is content in the self.

Cittaṁ: Mind or consciousness.
Ātmana: Of the self or soul.

Here, the self becomes the object of realization, emphasizing internal contentment. The verse bridges the gap between practice and experience, marking a turning point in the journey of yoga.

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सुखमात्यन्तिकं यत्तद्बुद्धिग्राह्यमतीन्द्रियम् |
वेत्ति यत्र न चैवायं स्थितश्चलति तत्त्वत: ||21||

One experiences boundless joy that can only be grasped by intelligence, and remaining in this state, does not move from the truth.

Buddhi-grāhyam: Perceived by intelligence.
Ati-indriyam: Beyond the senses.

Krishna introduces the concept of transcendental joy, accessible only through higher intelligence. This joy, being unshakable and eternal, differentiates the spiritual from the material.

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यं लब्ध्वा चापरं लाभं मन्यते नाधिकं तत: |
यस्मिन्स्थितो न दु:खेन गुरुणापि विचाल्यते ||22||

Having attained this, one thinks no greater gain exists, and being established in this, one is not shaken even by great sorrow.

Lābha: Gain or acquisition.
Duḥkhena: With sorrow or suffering.

This shloka underscores the invincibility of spiritual bliss. Once attained, it makes material sorrows and desires insignificant, highlighting the ultimate goal of inner stability.

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Dhyana Yogah - This should be known as the yoga of disconnection from suffering. It must be practiced with determination and a firm, unwavering mind.

तं विद्याद् दु:खसंयोगवियोगं योगसञ्ज्ञितम् |
स निश्चयेन योक्तव्यो योगोऽनिर्विण्णचेतसा ||23||

This should be known as the yoga of disconnection from suffering. It must be practiced with determination and a firm, unwavering mind.

Saṁyoga: Connection or union.
Vi-yoga: Disconnection or separation.

Krishna encourages determination in the practice of yoga, addressing the natural challenges one faces. This verse serves as a motivational reminder to persevere despite difficulties.

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सङ्कल्पप्रभवान्कामांस्त्यक्त्वा सर्वानशेषत: |
मनसैवेन्द्रियग्रामं विनियम्य समन्तत: ||24||

Completely abandoning all desires born of mental imagination, and restraining the senses, one should focus the mind.

Saṅkalpa: Desires or mental creations.
Manasa: With the mind.

The verse speaks about mental discipline, urging the practitioner to withdraw from desires and control the senses. This step is presented as vital for deep concentration.

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