Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 6.36

“Yoga is hard for the uncontrolled, but one who strives with effort and controlled mind can attain it.”
Key Teaching: Effort and selfcontrol make yoga attainable.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Dhyana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that yoga is difficult for the uncontrolled but attainable through effort and a controlled mind. This verse, continuing 6.35, addresses Arjuna’s concern about mental control (6.34). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies effort, and Dhyana Yoga, as he emphasizes attainability, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s lack of control (1.28–46) obstructs his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s lack of effort (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to strive for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 6.35).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human difficulty in achieving yoga, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on effort (6.35). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to strive with control. The theme of Dhyana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on attainable yoga.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its encouraging clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s challenges, where effort ensures success. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with controlled effort, aligning with liberation.