Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 37

Here is an article based on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 37, along with its Sanskrit verse, transliteration, and meaning.

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The Path of the Fallen Yogi – Bhagavad Gita 6.37

Sanskrit Verse:

अर्जुन उवाच
अयतिः श्रद्धयोपेतो योगाच्चलितमानसः।
अप्राप्य योगसंसिद्धिं कां गतिं कृष्ण गच्छति ॥ ६.३७ ॥

Transliteration:

Arjuna Uvācha
Ayatiḥ śraddhayopeto yogāccalita-mānasaḥ।
Aprāpya yoga-saṁsiddhiṁ kāṁ gatiṁ kṛṣṇa gacchati ॥ 6.37 ॥

Translation:

Arjuna said:

O Krishna, what happens to a person who, though endowed with faith, does not have perseverance and whose mind strays from yoga before attaining perfection? What is his fate?

अर्जुन ने कहा : हे कृष्ण! जो व्यक्ति श्रद्धा से युक्त होते हुए भी धैर्य नहीं रखता, तथा जिसका मन सिद्धि प्राप्त करने से पहले ही योग से विमुख हो जाता है, उसका क्या भाग्य है?

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Understanding the Context

In this verse, Arjuna raises an important spiritual question. He is concerned about those who start their spiritual journey but are unable to complete it due to worldly distractions or lack of perseverance. Arjuna wonders whether such a yogi would be lost, having failed in both material and spiritual pursuits.

Krishna’s response in the following verses reassures that no effort in spiritual practice is ever wasted. Even if a yogi does not attain full realization in one lifetime, his progress carries forward into future births, eventually leading him to liberation.

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Philosophical Significance

1. The Nature of Spiritual Progress

   • Unlike material achievements, spiritual progress is never lost. Whatever effort one puts into yoga, meditation, or self-realization remains with the soul.

2. The Role of Faith and Effort

   • While faith (श्रद्धा, śraddhā) is crucial, continuous effort (अभ्यास, abhyāsa) is also necessary. A person must strive persistently to attain self-realization.

3. No Spiritual Failure

   • Krishna later explains that such a person is reborn in favorable conditions, such as a spiritually inclined family, which helps them continue their path toward enlightenment.

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Relevance in Today’s Life

• Many people start their spiritual journey but struggle with consistency due to worldly responsibilities. This verse reassures that every sincere effort matters.

• It encourages individuals to maintain faith and perseverance, knowing that spiritual endeavors never go to waste.

• It highlights the importance of patience and dedication on the path of self-discovery.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 6.37 beautifully illustrates Arjuna’s concern about the fate of an unfinished yogi. The Gita teaches that spiritual progress is never in vain and that every effort brings one closer to enlightenment. This verse motivates seekers to continue their journey with faith, knowing that Krishna always supports them.