Bhagavad Gita 5.24

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5, Verse 24 – The Inner Light of the Self

Sanskrit Verse:

अन्तः सुखोऽन्तरारामस्तथान्तर्ज्योतिरेव यः।
स योगी ब्रह्मनिर्वाणं ब्रह्मभूतोऽधिगच्छति।। 5.24।।

Transliteration:

antaḥ-sukho 'ntar-ārāmas tathāntar-jyotir eva yaḥ
sa yogī brahma-nirvāṇaṁ brahma-bhūto 'dhigacchati

Translation:

"The one who finds happiness within, who rejoices within, and whose light shines from within—such a yogi attains Brahman and merges in the ultimate liberation (Brahma-nirvāṇa).

" जो अपने भीतर सुख पाता है, जो अपने भीतर आनन्दित होता है, और जिसका प्रकाश अपने भीतर से चमकता है - ऐसा योगी ब्रह्म को प्राप्त करता है और परम मोक्ष (ब्रह्म-निर्वाण) में लीन हो जाता है। "

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Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, Lord Krishna describes the qualities of a true yogi—one who has realized the Self. He emphasizes that true joy and peace are not found in external objects but within oneself. The verse highlights three key aspects:

1. Antaḥ-sukhaḥ (Inner Joy): A spiritually enlightened person does not depend on worldly pleasures for happiness. Instead, they experience deep, inner bliss that arises from self-realization.

2. Antar-ārāmaḥ (Inner Rejoicing): Such a yogi takes refuge in their own consciousness rather than external distractions. Their mind remains steady, content, and undisturbed by external circumstances.

3. Antar-jyotiḥ (Inner Light): The enlightened being perceives the divine light within, which is the true essence of their being. This inner illumination guides them towards ultimate liberation.

When a person achieves this inner state, they transcend material existence and attain Brahma-nirvāṇa—the state of complete spiritual liberation where they become one with the Supreme Brahman.

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Practical Application of this Verse

• Self-Reflection and Meditation: The verse encourages us to turn inward and find happiness within rather than seeking it in external pleasures. Practices like meditation and self-inquiry help cultivate this inner joy.

• Detachment from Materialism: The verse teaches us to reduce attachment to material desires, as true contentment is found within.

• Spiritual Enlightenment: By realizing the eternal soul within, we move closer to liberation and transcend worldly sufferings.

This verse is a powerful reminder that true bliss and peace are not dependent on the outer world but on our inner consciousness.