Bhagavad Gita 6.6

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 6 – The Mastery of the Self

Sanskrit Verse:

बन्धुरात्मात्मनस्तस्य येनात्मैवात्मना जितः।
अनात्मनस्तु शत्रुत्वे वर्तेतात्मैव शत्रुवत्॥ ६.६॥

Transliteration:

Bandhur ātmātmanas tasya yenātmaivātmanā jitaḥ,
Anātmanas tu śhatrutve vartetātmaiva śhatruvat.

Translation:

"For one who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends. But for one who has failed to do so, the mind will remain the greatest enemy."

" जिसने मन पर विजय पा ली है, उसके लिए मन सबसे अच्छा मित्र है। लेकिन जो ऐसा करने में असफल रहा है, उसके लिए मन सबसे बड़ा शत्रु बना रहेगा। "

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Explanation of the Verse

This verse from the Bhagavad Gita, spoken by Lord Krishna to Arjuna, highlights the power and role of the mind in human life. It presents two fundamental states of existence:

1. The Mind as a Friend – When a person learns to control their mind through self-discipline, meditation, and detachment, the mind becomes their greatest ally. Such a person experiences inner peace, clarity, and unwavering focus on spiritual growth.

2. The Mind as an Enemy – If one fails to regulate the mind, it becomes their worst enemy, leading to confusion, distraction, and suffering. An uncontrolled mind is driven by desires, attachments, and external influences, pulling the individual away from their higher self.

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Spiritual and Practical Significance

• Self-Discipline and Control – This verse emphasizes the need for self-discipline in life. Controlling thoughts, emotions, and desires is key to achieving peace and success.

• Meditation and Yoga – The Gita, especially in Chapter 6 (Dhyana Yoga), stresses the practice of meditation as a means to master the mind. Through meditation, one attains balance, stability, and wisdom.

• Application in Daily Life – In modern times, this teaching is highly relevant. A controlled mind leads to better decision-making, reduced stress, and improved emotional well-being. Cultivating self-awareness and mindfulness helps in achieving a calm and composed state of mind.

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Conclusion

Verse 6.6 of the Bhagavad Gita serves as a powerful reminder that our greatest struggle is within. By conquering our own mind, we can transform it into our strongest ally, leading us towards self-realization and ultimate liberation. However, if we let it rule us, it becomes a formidable adversary. Thus, the path to wisdom and peace begins with self-mastery.