Bhagavad Gita Verse 2.67

 

Bhagavad Gita Verse 2.67: The Danger of a Distracted Mind

Sanskrit Verse:

इन्द्रियाणां हि चरतां यन्मनोऽनुविधीयते।
तदस्य हरति प्रज्ञां वायुर्नावमिवाम्भसि।। 2.67

Transliteration:

Indriyāṇāṁ hi caratāṁ yan mano’nuvidhīyate
Tadasya harati prajñāṁ vāyur nāvam ivāmbhasi

Translation:

"For the mind that follows the wandering senses, it carries away wisdom just as the wind sweeps away a boat on the water."

"जो मन भटकती हुई इन्द्रियों का अनुसरण करता है, वह ज्ञान को उसी प्रकार बहा ले जाता है, जैसे हवा पानी पर चलती हुई नाव को बहा ले जाती है। "

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Understanding the Verse

In this verse, Lord Krishna warns Arjuna about the dangers of an uncontrolled mind. He uses the analogy of a boat caught in a storm to illustrate how easily a person's wisdom can be lost when the mind follows the senses without discipline.

Key Themes:

1. The Power of the Senses:

   • The senses are naturally restless and drawn toward external objects.
   • If the mind follows these wandering senses without restraint, it gets carried away like a boat in a storm.

2. Loss of Wisdom (Prajñā):

   • A distracted mind weakens one's ability to think clearly.
   • Wisdom and self-awareness diminish when one is constantly chasing desires and pleasures.

3. The Analogy of the Boat and Wind:

• Just as a boat cannot remain stable if caught in strong winds, a person cannot maintain wisdom if their mind is uncontrolled.
• A stable mind is essential for self-realization and spiritual progress.

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Practical Application in Daily Life

1. Mindfulness and Self-Control:

   • Practicing mindfulness helps in controlling the senses and maintaining focus.
   • Regular meditation strengthens mental discipline.

2. Avoiding Distractions:

   • In the modern world, distractions like social media, excessive entertainment, and material desires can carry the mind away.
   • Developing habits of self-discipline can help in regaining control.

3. Spiritual Growth:

• By focusing on higher spiritual goals, one can prevent the mind from being tossed around by fleeting desires.
• Regular reading of scriptures and association with wise people can keep the mind steady.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 2.67 teaches us that an uncontrolled mind leads to the loss of wisdom, just as a boat loses its direction in a storm. By practicing self-discipline, mindfulness, and spiritual awareness, we can anchor our minds and lead a more balanced and meaningful life.