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| Atma-Samyama Yoga | |
|---|---|
 Painting of Arjuna and Krishna on a chariot, an 18th century description of the setting of the Bhagvaad Gita | |
| Information | |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Author | Traditionally attributed to Vyasa |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| Verses | 47 |
The Atma-Samyama Yoga (Sanskrit: आत्मसंयमयोग, romanized: Ātmasaṃyamayōga), known as the Dhyana Yoga,[1] is the sixth of the eighteen chapters of the Bhagavad Gita.[2] The chapter has a total of 47 shlokas. The chapter is the 28th chapter of Bhishma Parva, the sixth episode of the Mahabharata.[3]
Etymology[edit]
The term Atma-Samyama Yoga is a combination of two Sanskrit words— Atma refers to the individual soul or self, while Samyama means self-discipline or self-control.
Atma-Samyama Yoga is the practice of self-discipline or self-control to achieve a deeper connection with one's inner self or soul. The chapter is also known as Dhyana Yoga, the yoga of meditation.[4]
Overview[edit]
1-5: In these shlokas, Arjuna questions Krishna about the apparent contradiction between those who restrain their senses and those who indulge them. Krishna explains that self-control is superior, and by mastering the mind, senses, and desires, one attains tranquility.
6-9: Here, Krishna discusses the importance of self-discipline. He advises Arjuna to sit in a clean place, hold his body steady, and focus his gaze on a single point. This practice of meditation is said to help control the mind.[5]
10-16: Krishna explains the concept of equanimity. He advises Arjuna to treat pleasure and pain, success and failure, as the same. This detachment is essential for a peaceful and content life.
17-23: In these shlokas, Krishna describes the ideal meditative mindset. He suggests that a yogi should be secluded, eat in moderation, practice moderation in all activities, and engage in a balanced lifestyle.
24-29: Krishna describes the elevated yogi, one who has mastered the art of meditation and self-control. Such a person sees the entire universe within themselves and themselves within the universe.[6]
30-32: Krishna explains the concept of unity, how the wise person sees the same divine presence in all beings and all beings in the divine presence. This vision dispels feelings of separateness and fosters unity.
33-36: Krishna emphasises self-realisation. He encourages Arjuna to rise above doubts, control the mind, and attain self-mastery. Through self-discipline and self-awareness, one can attain inner peace.
37-47: In the concluding shlokas, Krishna emphasises the supremacy of self-realisation. He urges Arjuna to rise above material desires, practice meditation, and surrender to the divine. By doing so, one can attain true union with the self.
Content[edit]
The Atma-Samyama Yoga, also known as the Yoga of Self-Control, is a significant concept discussed in the text. This dialogue takes place between Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Atma-Samyama Yoga revolves around the idea of mastering oneself through self-discipline and control. Krishna advises Arjuna that true strength and liberation come from controlling one's desires, emotions, and senses. He emphasises that inner peace is achieved by reigning in the mind's wanderings and aligning it with the higher self. Krishna explains that the human mind is prone to distraction and restlessness, which can lead to suffering. By practicing self-control, one can detach from the material world, find balance, and ultimately attain self-realisation. Krishna urges Arjuna to focus on the true purpose of life, transcending physical and material desires.
This path of self-mastery requires dedication, practice, and detachment from the outcomes of one's actions. Krishna highlights the importance of performing duties without attachment to success or failure. By doing so, individuals can overcome the fluctuations of the mind and attain a state of equanimity. In essence, Atma-Samyama Yoga teaches that true freedom comes from controlling the mind's impulses, connecting with one's higher self, and realising the impermanence of the material world. This wisdom shared between Krishna and Arjuna serves as a guide for individuals seeking inner harmony, spiritual growth, and a meaningful existence amidst life's challenges.
Themes[edit]
- Self-Discipline and Control: The chapter emphasises the practice of self-discipline in controlling one's actions, thoughts, and desires. It discusses the importance of moderation and avoiding extremes in behavior.
- Meditation and Inner Peace: The concept of meditation (dhyana) is highlighted as a means to achieve inner peace and self-realization. The chapter teaches how to meditate with a focused mind and a tranquil heart.
- Detachment and Renunciation: The theme of detachment from material desires and possessions is central. Detachment is presented as a way to free oneself from worldly attachments and attain spiritual progress.
- Equanimity in Success and Failure: The concept of maintaining equanimity in both success and failure is discussed. The chapter teaches how to remain balanced regardless of the outcomes of actions.
- Control of Senses and Desires: The importance of controlling the senses and desires is emphasized for leading a disciplined and focused life. It advises not to let desires dictate one's actions and decisions.[7]
- Yoga as a Path to Liberation: The chapter introduces the concept of yoga as a means to attain liberation (moksha). It explains that by practicing self-discipline and meditation, one can achieve self-realisation and ultimately unite with the divine.
- Steadfastness and Perseverance: The chapter encourages steadfastness in practicing meditation and self-discipline. It highlights the significance of perseverance on the spiritual path.
- Importance of Solitude: The value of solitude and seclusion for focused meditation is emphasized. The chapter suggests that withdrawing from distractions can aid in achieving inner stillness.
- Balancing Material and Spiritual Life: The chapter provides guidance on balancing material responsibilities with spiritual pursuits. It suggests that a disciplined approach can help individuals manage both aspects effectively.
These themes collectively form the essence of the Bhagavad Gita, conveying the teachings of self-mastery, inner tranquility, and spiritual growth through self-discipline and meditation.
See also[edit]
References[edit]
- ^ Sutton, Nicholas (2020-03-03). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation and Study Guide. Simon and Schuster. p. 49. ISBN 978-1-64722-128-7.
- ^ Sharma, Amiya Bhushan. Aristotle, Plato and Bhagvad Gita on the "Soul" In the Light Primarily of On the Soul, Phaedo and the Second Chapter of Bhagvad Gita. OCLC 1188954697.
- ^ "SHOCKING NEWS", Mahabharata Book Six (Volume 1), NYU Press, pp. 105–170, doi:10.2307/j.ctt1bmzmj1.9, retrieved 2023-08-23
- ^ "Atma-Samyama Yoga". Sringeri Vidya Bharati Foundation Inc., USA. 2013-10-30. Retrieved 2023-11-09.
- ^ Shivakumar, K. N. (2019-04-06). Bhagawad Gita: Bhagavad Gita (in Sanskrit). Sangeet Bharati. p. 45.
- ^ The Bhagavad Gita: with an English translation, explanatory notes and an examination of its doctrines. Robarts - University of Toronto. London ; Madras : Christian Literature Society for India. 1899. p. 24.
{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: others (link) - ^ Doane, Mary Ann (1987), The Desire to Desire, London: Palgrave Macmillan UK, pp. 1–37, doi:10.1007/978-1-349-19145-1_1 (inactive 2024-03-04), ISBN 978-0-333-45535-7
{{citation}}: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of March 2024 (link)