Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 5.27

Shloka 5.27

“Shutting out external contacts, fixing the gaze between eyebrows, balancing breath through nostrils.”
Key Teaching: Meditation, shutting out senses and balancing breath, leads to liberation.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes meditation: shutting out external contacts, fixing the gaze between eyebrows, and balancing breath through nostrils. This verse, continuing 5.26, addresses Arjuna’s mental turmoil (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies meditative practice, and Karma Sannyasa Yoga, as he emphasizes discipline, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s sensory distractions (1.28–46) hinder his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s sensory indulgence (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to meditate for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 4.29).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human need for mental focus, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on meditation (4.29). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to master senses. The theme of Karma Sannyasa Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on meditative liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its practical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s distractions, where meditation ensures focus. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with discipline, aligning with liberation.