Bhagavad Gita 2.57

 

Bhagavad Gita Verse 2.57: The Path of True Wisdom

Sanskrit Verse:

यः सर्वत्रानभिस्नेहस्तत्तत्प्राप्य शुभाशुभम् |
नाभिनन्दति न द्वेष्टि तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ||

Translation:

"He who is unattached to everything, who, on meeting with good and evil, neither rejoices nor hates, is established in perfect wisdom."

"वह जो सब वस्तुओं से अनासक्त है, जो अच्छाई और बुराई का सामना होने पर भी न तो प्रसन्न होता है, न घृणा करता है, वह पूर्ण ज्ञान में स्थित है।"

Explanation:

In this verse, Lord Krishna explains the qualities of a person who possesses sthitaprajna (steady wisdom). Such a person remains unaffected by external circumstances, whether favorable or unfavorable. This verse emphasizes equanimity as a key trait of a wise individual.

Key Lessons from This Verse:

1. Freedom from Attachment

A wise person does not form excessive attachments to people, situations, or material possessions. Attachments create dependency and suffering, making it difficult to maintain inner peace.

2. Equanimity in Dualities

Life presents us with both joy and sorrow, success and failure, gain and loss. A person of steady wisdom does not get overjoyed by success nor depressed by failure. Instead, they maintain calmness and stability in all situations.

3. Overcoming Emotional Reactions

Most people celebrate good news and resent bad news. However, Krishna teaches that true wisdom lies in neutrality—not being overly excited or deeply disappointed by external events. This helps one remain in mental peace and clarity.

4. Practicing Detachment in Daily Life

• Accept both praise and criticism with the same mindset.
• View success and failure as natural events rather than personal victories or defeats.
• Focus on actions rather than expecting specific results.

How to Apply This Wisdom?

• Mindfulness & Self-Reflection: Observe your emotional reactions and practice self-awareness.
• Detachment with Love: Be engaged in life but without excessive expectations or dependence.
• Practice Equanimity: Train your mind to remain balanced in both pleasant and unpleasant situations.

Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 2.57 teaches that wisdom comes from detachment, equanimity, and emotional stability. By applying these principles in daily life, one can cultivate inner peace, resilience, and a deeper understanding of reality.

Would you like further insights on how this teaching applies to specific situation.