“When the disciplined mind rests in the self alone, free from desire for objects, one is established in yoga.”
Key Teaching: A disciplined, desirefree mind resting in the self establishes yoga.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Dhyana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that when a disciplined mind, free from desire for objects, rests in the self alone, one is established in yoga. This verse, continuing 6.17, addresses Arjuna’s attachment (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies selffocused yoga, and Dhyana Yoga, as he emphasizes establishment, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s desire for outcomes (1.28–46) hinders his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s desiredriven actions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to focus inward for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 6.4).
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human attachment to desires, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selffocus (5.21, 6.4). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to rest in the self. The theme of Dhyana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on disciplined yoga.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its focused clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s desires, where selffocus establishes yoga. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with discipline, aligning with liberation.