Bhagavad Gita: 2.55

 

Understanding Bhagavad Gita: Verse 2.55 – The Qualities of a Sthitaprajna

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, contains profound philosophical wisdom. In Chapter 2, Verse 55, Lord Krishna describes the characteristics of a Sthitaprajna (a person of steady wisdom) in response to Arjuna’s question about the nature of an enlightened being.

Sanskrit Verse (Bhagavad Gita 2.55)

श्रीभगवानुवाच |
प्रजहाति यदा कामान्सर्वान्पार्थ मनोगतान् |
आत्मनि एव आत्मना तुष्ट: स्थितप्रज्ञ: तदौच्यते ||

Translation

Lord Krishna said:
"When a person completely renounces all desires arising from the mind and remains content in the self alone, then such a person is said to be of steady wisdom (Sthitaprajna)."

भगवान कृष्ण ने कहा: "जब कोई व्यक्ति मन से उत्पन्न होने वाली सभी इच्छाओं को पूरी तरह से त्याग देता है और केवल स्वयं में संतुष्ट रहता है, तो ऐसा व्यक्ति स्थिर ज्ञान (स्थितप्रज्ञ) वाला कहा जाता है।"

Explanation

This verse introduces a key teaching of the Gita—detachment from desires and self-contentment. Let’s break it down:

1. Renunciation of Desires

Krishna says that a wise person abandons all desires that arise in the mind. This does not mean they stop acting in the world, but they are not attached to the outcomes of their actions. Desires often lead to frustration, greed, and suffering. A Sthitaprajna is free from these disturbances.

2. Contentment in the Self

Instead of seeking happiness in external things (wealth, status, relationships), a person of steady wisdom finds true joy within—in the realization of the Atman (the true self). Such a person does not depend on material gains for inner peace.

3. State of a Sthitaprajna

A Sthitaprajna remains calm, unaffected by joy or sorrow, success or failure. Their mind is rooted in self-awareness and spiritual wisdom, making them fearless and free from suffering.

Relevance in Modern Life

This teaching is extremely relevant today. Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction due to unfulfilled desires. By practicing detachment and inner satisfaction, one can attain peace and mental stability.

• In Work: Perform duties without being overly attached to results.
• In Relationships: Love selflessly without expecting constant validation.
• In Challenges: Face difficulties with equanimity, knowing that external events do not define true happiness.

Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 2.55 offers a profound lesson on inner fulfillment and detachment. A person who gives up unnecessary cravings and remains content in the self achieves true wisdom and peace. By practicing this wisdom, we can navigate life with stability, clarity, and joy.

Would you like a deeper analysis or practical ways to implement this teaching in daily life?