Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 3.43

Shloka 3.43: “Knowing the self as superior to intellect, O Arjuna, steady the mind with the self and slay the enemy, desire.”

Key Teaching: The self, superior to intellect, enables one to slay desire through selfdiscipline.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.

500Word Description:
Krishna concludes Chapter 3 by urging Arjuna to recognize the self’s supremacy over intellect, steadying the mind with the self to slay desire, the enemy (3.37). This verse, building on 3.40–42, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation to fight (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies selfmastery, and Karma Yoga, as he emphasizes overcoming desire, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s desiredriven grief (1.26–27) clouds his intellect. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s uncontrolled desires (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to use selfdiscipline to fulfill his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 2.58–61). The self’s supremacy empowers victory over desire.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human struggle with desire, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on the self (2.12–25, 3.42). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to prioritize the self for discipline. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on selfdirected action for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its conclusive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s inner battles, where selfmastery defeats desire. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with selfdiscipline, aligning with spiritual victory and concluding Chapter 3’s focus on overcoming obstacles to action.