Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 6.7

“The selfconquered, with controlled mind, remains serene in heat, cold, pleasure, pain, honor, and dishonor.”
Key Teaching: A selfconquered mind remains serene amidst dualities.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Dhyana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that one who has conquered the self, with a controlled mind, remains serene in dualities like heat, cold, pleasure, pain, honor, and dishonor. This verse, continuing 6.6, addresses Arjuna’s emotional turmoil (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies equanimity, and Dhyana Yoga, as he emphasizes serenity, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reactions to dualities (1.28–46) hinder his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s reactive ambition (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to remain serene for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 5.20).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human sway by dualities, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on equanimity (2.38, 5.20). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to achieve serenity. The theme of Dhyana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on serene action.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its calm clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s dualities, where selfconquest ensures serenity. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with equanimity, aligning with liberation.