Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5, Verse 27

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5, Verse 27: The Path of Meditation

Sanskrit Verse:

स्पर्शान् कृत्वा बहिर्बाह्यांश्चक्षुश्चैवान्तरे भ्रुवोः।
प्राणापानौ समौ कृत्वा नासाभ्यन्तरचारिणौ॥ ५.२७॥

Transliteration:

Sparśān kṛtvā bahir bāhyāṁś cakṣuś caivāntare bhruvoḥ,
Prāṇāpānau samau kṛtvā nāsābhyantara-cāriṇau.

Translation:

Keeping all external sensory contacts outside, fixing the gaze between the eyebrows, and equalizing the inward and outward breaths moving within the nostrils.

" सभी बाह्य संवेदी संपर्कों को बाहर ही रखें, दृष्टि को भौंहों के बीच स्थिर रखें, तथा नासिका के भीतर आने-जाने वाली श्वासों को समान रखें। "

---

Explanation and Significance

In this verse, Lord Krishna describes the yogic path of meditation, which helps in attaining self-realization and inner peace. He explains how a yogi must withdraw from external distractions and focus inward to achieve a state of spiritual balance.

Key Teachings of the Verse:

1. Withdrawal from External Sensory Stimuli

   • "स्पर्शान् कृत्वा बहिर्बाह्यान्" (Sparśān kṛtvā bahir bāhyān) means to detach oneself from the external world and not be influenced by sensory experiences.

   • This is essential for deep meditation, as external distractions disturb mental clarity.

2. Fixing the Gaze Between the Eyebrows

   • "चक्षुश्चैवान्तरे भ्रुवोः" (Cakṣuś caivāntare bhruvoḥ) refers to focusing the vision at the space between the eyebrows, known as the "ajna chakra" or third eye.

   • This technique enhances concentration and leads to a higher state of awareness.

3. Control of Breath (Pranayama)

• "प्राणापानौ समौ कृत्वा" (Prāṇāpānau samau kṛtvā) instructs balancing the two vital breaths—prana (incoming breath) and apana (outgoing breath).

• "नासाभ्यन्तरचारिणौ" (Nāsābhyantara-cāriṇau) signifies the breath moving within the nostrils, emphasizing controlled and rhythmic breathing to calm the mind.

---

Relevance in Daily Life

• Practicing Mindfulness: By withdrawing from distractions, one can stay focused and achieve inner peace.

• Meditation and Breath Control: Yogic breathing techniques help manage stress, anxiety, and enhance mental clarity.

• Developing Detachment: By not being overly attached to external circumstances, one can maintain equanimity in life.

This verse beautifully encapsulates the essence of meditation in the Bhagavad Gita, guiding us toward self-discipline and higher consciousness.