Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 3.42

Shloka 3.42: “The senses are superior to objects, the mind to senses, the intellect to mind, and the self is superior to intellect.”

Key Teaching: The self is superior to intellect, mind, and senses in a hierarchy.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.

500Word Description:
Krishna teaches a hierarchy: senses surpass objects, mind surpasses senses, intellect surpasses mind, and the self is superior to intellect. This verse, building on 3.40–41, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies selfcontrol, and Karma Yoga, as he emphasizes the self’s supremacy, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s sensorydriven grief (1.26–27) reflects a lack of selfmastery. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s lower impulses (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to align with the self to fulfill his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 2.58–61).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human need for selfmastery, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on the self (2.12–25). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to prioritize the self. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on selfdirected action.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its hierarchical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s control, where the self governs lower faculties. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with selfmastery, aligning with spiritual wisdom.