Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 2.58

Shloka 2.58

“When he withdraws his senses from objects, like a tortoise its limbs, his wisdom is firmly established.”
Key Teaching: A sage controls senses like a tortoise retracting limbs, ensuring steady wisdom.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Sthita-Prajna.
Description:
Krishna compares a steady-minded sage to a tortoise withdrawing its limbs, stating that one who controls senses from objects has firmly established wisdom. This verse continues the sthita-prajna’s traits (2.55–57), addressing Arjuna’s emotional turmoil (1.28–46). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies duty, and sthita-prajna, as he emphasizes sense control, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s attachment to kin (1.26–27) reflects sensory entanglement. Krishna’s analogy contrasts with Duryodhana’s sensory-driven ambition (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to control senses to fulfill his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga’s detachment (2.47–48).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human bondage to sensory desires, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on equanimity. Arjuna’s grief complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to master senses. The theme of sthita-prajna underscores the Gita’s focus on disciplined wisdom.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, highlighting its vivid imagery. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s distractions, where sense control ensures stability. Krishna’s analogy prepares readers for performing duty with discipline, emulating the sage’s steady state.