One who is free from attachment and does not rejoice in good fortune or lament in adversity has attained steady wisdom. Krishna teaches that equanimity in all circumstances is essential for spiritual growth. By remaining unattached to outcomes, one can maintain inner peace and wisdom, regardless of external circumstances.

Krishna compares the sage who controls his senses to a tortoise withdrawing its limbs. When one withdraws from sense objects, his wisdom becomes steady. This analogy highlights the importance of self-control and the ability to turn inwards, focusing on the self rather than the distractions of the external world.

Although the senses may withdraw from sense objects, the taste for them remains. However, even this taste disappears upon realizing the Supreme. Krishna indicates that true detachment is not merely physical but also mental. Realizing the higher taste of spiritual bliss can help one overcome lower desires.

One who restrains his senses and fixes his mind on the Supreme remains steady in wisdom. Krishna encourages Arjuna to use his mind and intellect to control his senses, thereby achieving steadiness and clarity. This teaching reinforces the importance of mental focus and devotion as tools for mastering one’s lower nature.

Krishna explains how attachment to sense objects develops through contemplation, leading to desire and then to anger. This progression reveals the chain of reactions that cloud the mind and lead to delusion. Arjuna is advised to break this chain early by avoiding unnecessary attachment, which gives rise to further suffering.

From anger arises delusion, which leads to confusion of memory and loss of reason. This results in the total destruction of one’s wisdom. Krishna describes how unchecked emotions can spiral out of control, causing inner chaos. This teaching warns Arjuna about the dangers of allowing his emotions to dominate his judgment.