Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 6.9

“Superior is one who regards friend, foe, neutral, mediator, hateful, relative, saint, and sinner with equal mind.”
Key Teaching: A superior yogi treats all—friend or foe—equally.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Dhyana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that a superior yogi regards friend, foe, neutral, mediator, hateful, relative, saint, and sinner with an equal mind. This verse, building on 6.8, addresses Arjuna’s emotional attachments (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies equanimity, and Dhyana Yoga, as he emphasizes equal vision, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s bias toward kin (1.28–46) clouds his Kshatriya duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s enmity (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to treat all equally to perform his duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 5.18). Equal vision fosters detachment.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human tendency for partiality, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on equality (5.18–19). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to cultivate impartiality. The theme of Dhyana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on equanimous meditation for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its universal clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s relationships, where equal vision ensures freedom. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty without bias, aligning with spiritual liberation.