Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 2.61

Shloka 2.61

“One who controls all senses and fixes his mind on Me attains steady wisdom.”
Key Teaching: Sense control and focus on Krishna lead to steady wisdom.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Sthita-Prajna.
Description:
Krishna teaches that one who controls all senses and fixes his mind on Him attains steady wisdom, continuing the sthita-prajna description (2.55–60). This verse addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9) by emphasizing devotion and discipline. The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies duty, and sthita-prajna, as he highlights devotion, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s sensory attachment (1.26–27) fuels his grief. Krishna’s teaching, urging focus on Him, contrasts with Duryodhana’s ambition (1.3–11), guiding Arjuna to fulfill his Kshatriya duty through devotion and sense control, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human challenge of sensory distraction, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on devotion. Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to focus on the divine. The theme of sthita-prajna underscores the Gita’s focus on disciplined devotion.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its spiritual depth. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s challenges, where divine focus ensures stability. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with devotion, emulating the sage’s steady wisdom.