Bhagavad Gita 3.53

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 3, Verse 53: Understanding True Devotion

Sanskrit Verse:

श्रुतिविप्रतिपन्ना ते यदा स्थास्यति निश्चला।
समाधावचला बुद्धिस्तदा योगमवाप्स्यसि॥ ३.५३॥

Transliteration:

śruti-vipratipannā te yadā sthāsyati niścalā
samādhāv acalā buddhis tadā yogam avāpsyasi

Translation:

"When your mind, which is disturbed by conflicting teachings of the scriptures, becomes steady and firmly fixed in deep meditation (samadhi), then you will attain the state of true yoga."

" जब तुम्हारा मन, जो शास्त्रों की परस्पर विरोधी शिक्षाओं से विचलित हो जाता है, गहरे ध्यान (समाधि) में स्थिर और दृढ़तापूर्वक स्थित हो जाता है, तब तुम सच्चे योग की अवस्था को प्राप्त करोगे। "

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Explanation of Bhagavad Gita 3.53

Context in the Bhagavad Gita

This verse is part of the third chapter, Karma Yoga, where Lord Krishna explains the importance of selfless action. In the previous verses, Krishna emphasizes how one should perform duty without attachment and desire for the results. Here, he shifts focus towards the stability of the intellect and the ultimate goal of spiritual realization.

Key Teachings from the Verse

1. Overcoming Confusion through Steady Wisdom
   Many times, seekers become confused due to different interpretations of scriptures (shruti-vipratipannā). This verse reassures that clarity comes when one’s intellect (buddhi) is unwavering and focused on true knowledge.

2. Achieving Mental Stability through Meditation
   Krishna highlights the importance of a steady mind in deep meditation (samādhi). A restless mind, distracted by varying opinions, cannot attain true knowledge. Only when the mind is unwavering can one experience real yoga (yogam avāpsyasi).

3. The Path to Self-Realization
   Yoga here refers to the union with the divine, where an individual transcends worldly doubts and attains spiritual wisdom. This verse suggests that true knowledge does not come just from intellectual debates but from direct realization through meditation.

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Practical Application in Daily Life

• Avoid Confusion: In the modern world, we are bombarded with information from multiple sources. Instead of getting lost in endless arguments, focus on deep self-inquiry and spiritual practice.
• Meditation for Inner Peace: Regular meditation helps calm the mind and brings clarity, aligning with Krishna’s teaching on unwavering intellect.
• Balance Knowledge with Experience: While scriptures guide us, true wisdom comes from applying knowledge in life and experiencing divine truth.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 3.53 teaches us that wisdom is not just about reading or hearing but about deeply realizing the truth through a stable and unwavering intellect. By following the path of meditation and selfless action, one can achieve true yoga—union with the Supreme.