Bhagavad Gita 6.18

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 18: The State of a Perfect Yogi

Sanskrit Verse:

यदा विनियतं चित्तमात्मन्येवावतिष्ठते।
नि:स्पृह: सर्वकामेभ्यो युक्त इत्युच्यते तदा॥

Transliteration:

Yadā viniyataṁ chittam ātmany evāvatiṣṭhate
niḥspṛhaḥ sarva-kāmebhyo yukta ity ucyate tadā.

Meaning in English:

"When the mind, completely restrained from material desires, is established in the Self alone, then one is said to be truly united (yukta) in yoga."

" जब मन भौतिक इच्छाओं से पूर्णतः संयमित होकर केवल आत्मा में स्थित हो जाता है, तब कहा जाता है कि वह योग में सचमुच एक हो गया है। "

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Explanation of the Verse

This verse from the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 6, Dhyana Yoga – The Yoga of Meditation) highlights the state of a perfect yogi who has attained complete control over the mind. The verse emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, inner stability, and detachment from material desires.

1. Viniyataṁ Chittam (Controlled Mind):

   • A yogi must train the mind to remain steady and undistracted.

   • Through meditation and discipline, the mind is freed from distractions and attachments.

2. Ātmany Evāvatiṣṭhate (Established in the Self):

   • Instead of seeking happiness in the external world, the yogi finds true contentment within.

   • This self-realization leads to inner peace and spiritual fulfillment.

3. Niḥspṛhaḥ Sarva-Kāmebhyo (Free from Desires):

   • Desires create restlessness and attachment.

   • A yogi must transcend worldly cravings to experience true liberation (moksha).

4. Yukta Ity Ucyate Tadā (Then One is Called a Yogi):

   • When the mind is fully absorbed in the Self, the person attains the true state of yoga.

   • Such a yogi remains unshaken by external circumstances and attains divine bliss.

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Practical Application in Daily Life

• Meditation and Self-Control: Practicing meditation helps in gaining mastery over thoughts and emotions.

• Detachment from Materialism: True happiness comes from within, not from external possessions.

• Inner Stability: By remaining centered in the Self, one can handle life's challenges with peace.

• Spiritual Growth: This verse encourages seekers to cultivate a deeper connection with their inner self through devotion and discipline.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 6.18 teaches the essence of a true yogi’s journey—mastering the mind, letting go of desires, and remaining steadfast in the Self. This wisdom is not just for ascetics but for anyone seeking inner peace and spiritual elevation in daily life. By practicing mindfulness, detachment, and self-discipline, we can all move closer to the ideal state of a yogi described in this verse.