2-1

Sanjaya said: Then, seeing Arjuna overwhelmed with compassion, with eyes full of tears and full of despair, Madhusudana (Krishna) spoke these words.

Explanation: Krishna begins his spiritual teachings to Arjuna. Sanjaya, who is recounting the events to Dhritarashtra, describes Arjuna's emotional state: overwhelmed with compassion and eyes full of tears, he is deeply full of despair, unable to accept the thought of fighting against his relatives. Krishna is addressed here as Madhusudana, which indicates his ability to destroy demonic forces. Now his task is to dispel Arjuna's spiritual and emotional demons — his doubts and sorrows.

2-2

The Supreme Lord said: My dear Arjuna, how have these impurities come upon you? They do not at all befit a man who knows the value of life. They do not lead to the higher planets, but to disgrace.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna addresses Arjuna with surprise and disappointment at his confusion and emotional weakness. Krishna asks why such a state of weakness and confusion has overcome Arjuna precisely at a difficult moment when courage and determination are needed. Krishna points out that this behavior is not worthy of noble-minded people — those who follow morality and duty. He also emphasizes that this confusion does not lead to heaven, therefore does not help to achieve spiritual liberation, and it does not bring fame, which is important for a warrior in the fulfillment of his honor and duty.

2-3

O Partha (Arjuna), do not yield to this degrading impotence. It does not befit you. Give up such petty weakness and arise, O chastiser of enemies!

Explanation: Krishna urges Arjuna to abandon weakness and gather himself, reminding him that such a state is not suitable for a hero. He calls on Arjuna to overcome his timidity and remember his duty as a warrior. Krishna also addresses Arjuna as Partha — the vanquisher of opponents, reminding him of his courage and ability to fight. With this address, Krishna urges Arjuna to cast aside his weak state of mind and arise to accept the challenge of battle and fulfill his duty as a warrior.

2-4

Arjuna said: O destroyer of the wicked, O controller of the senses, how can I on the battlefield shoot arrows at men like Bhishma and Drona, who are worthy of my honor?

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna continues to express his deep doubts and moral dilemma, addressing Krishna with the titles Madhusudana (destroyer of Madhu) and Arisudana (destroyer of enemies). These titles symbolize Krishna's power to destroy evil and protect righteousness, and they are used to emphasize Krishna's ability to help Arjuna in this difficult moment.

2-5

It is better to beg in this world than to subsist on the wealth of great souls who are my teachers. Even though they are striving for selfish gain, they are still my spiritual masters. If they are slain, everything we enjoy will be tainted with blood.

Explanation: Arjuna's statements reflect his deep struggle between his duties as a warrior and his moral principles—he finds it difficult to accept the idea that in fulfilling his duty, he will have to kill those to whom he owes deep respect and gratitude. It should be clarified that Arjuna is willing to beg rather than kill his teachers, who are of the highest caste.

2-6

Nor do we know which of the two is better for us—whether we should conquer them or they conquer us. The sons of Dhṛtarāṣṭra, whom if we killed we should not want to live, are standing before us.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna expresses his complete confusion and moral dilemma. He does not know which is better—to conquer his relatives in battle or to allow them to conquer him. He is in such deep conflict that he cannot decide on the correct course of action.

2-7

Now I am confused about my duty and have lost all composure because of miserly weakness. In this condition I am asking You to tell me for certain what is best for me. Now I am Your disciple, and a soul surrendered unto You. Please instruct me.

Explanation: At this point, Arjuna has surrendered to Krishna as a disciple, asking Krishna to guide and instruct him. This surrender is very significant because Arjuna admits that he cannot solve his problems himself and seeks Krishna's guidance to find the right path and achieve the best possible solution.

2-8

I can find no means to drive away this grief which is drying up my senses. I will not be able to dispel it even if I win a prosperous, unrivaled kingdom on earth with sovereignty like the demigods in heaven.

Explanation: This verse emphasizes Arjuna's internal conflict and inability to cope with the situation, even if he were to achieve material victory. It suggests that he does not feel fulfillment from worldly achievements if they require moral and emotional sacrifices. His soul seeks a higher, spiritual solution, not just worldly riches and power.

2-9

Sañjaya said: Having spoken thus, Arjuna, conqueror of enemies, said to Kṛṣṇa, “Govinda, I shall not fight,” and became silent.

Explanation: In this verse, Sañjaya describes how Arjuna completely declares his refusal to fight. He addresses Krishna as Govinda ("one who gives pleasure to the senses and the cows"), not as Hṛṣīkeśa. Hṛṣīkeśa means "master of the senses." Despite this discipline, Arjuna refuses to fight, addressing Krishna as Govinda (one who pleases the senses, also the protector of cows). He affirms his decision with the words I shall not fight, and then becomes silent, indicating his emotional exhaustion and spiritual confusion.

2-10

O descendant of Bharata, at that time Kṛṣṇa, smiling, in the midst of both the armies, spoke the following words to the grief-stricken Arjuna:

Explanation: This verse marks Krishna's response to Arjuna's refusal to fight. Hṛṣīkeśa (Krishna, the master of the senses) sees Arjuna grief-stricken and depleted, standing between the two armies on the battlefield, but he begins his reply with a gentle smile (which could indicate his divine peace and understanding of the situation). Krishna addresses Arjuna directly in his moment of crisis to help him overcome his doubts and grief. The smile symbolizes Krishna's peace and confidence that he has a solution to lead Arjuna out of his emotional confusion.

2-11

The Supreme Personality of Godhead said: While speaking learned words, you are mourning for what is not worthy of grief. Those who are wise lament neither for the living nor for the dead.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna begins his teaching by pointing out that Arjuna's grief is unnecessary. Arjuna is mourning for the living and the dead, but the wise—those who understand the true nature of life and death—do not mourn for them because they understand that the soul is eternal and indestructible. Krishna indicates that wisdom is not just in words or intellectual understanding, but also in the comprehension of the soul's eternity and the reality of life. Arjuna, although speaking like a wise man, does not understand that human existence transcends the boundaries of physical death.

2-12

Never was there a time when I did not exist, nor you, nor all these kings; nor will there ever be a time when any of us shall cease to be.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna teaches Arjuna about the eternal nature of the soul. He points out that there was never a time when neither Krishna, nor Arjuna, nor other kings did not exist. The soul is eternal; it does not perish with the death of the body and continues to exist forever. This means that life and death are merely transitional processes that do not affect the soul's existence. This verse marks an important part of Krishna's teaching about the soul's immortality. He emphasizes that our existence is not limited to the physical body and time. Therefore, death is not a reason for sadness, as the soul continues to exist in another form. Krishna is trying to help Arjuna understand that the kings killed in battle, like Arjuna himself, will continue to exist because the soul is indestructible.

2-13

As the embodied soul continuously passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth to old age, the soul similarly passes into another body at the time of death. The self-realized soul is not bewildered by such a change.

Explanation: A wise person who understands the eternal nature of the soul is not bewildered or saddened by death because he realizes that the soul merely transitions to the next stage of life in another body. Death is just a transition point, not the end. In this verse, Krishna is trying to convince Arjuna that death is not a reason for fear or sadness, as the soul continues to exist and evolve.

2-14

O son of Kuntī, the nonpermanent appearance of happiness and distress, and their disappearance in due course, are like the appearance and disappearance of winter and summer seasons. They arise from sense perception, O scion of Bharata, and one must learn to tolerate them without being disturbed.

Explanation: Krishna urges Arjuna to tolerate these transient feelings and maintain peace, despite external circumstances. A person who can understand this transient nature remains calm in both joyful and difficult times, without being swayed by emotional fluctuations. This verse calls for inner stability and peace of mind so that one can overcome life's challenges while remaining spiritually strong. Arjuna is told that the hardships and emotional pain of battle are temporary and should be perceived with patience and the awareness that the soul remains unaffected, and this should be done not indifferently, but with understanding and inner peace.

2-15

Oh, best among men, the person who is not influenced by happiness and suffering and remains calm in both situations is truly fit for liberation.

Explanation: Krishna emphasizes that only those who are able to maintain spiritual peace and not succumb to the fluctuations of sensory perceptions are worthy of achieving spiritual liberation. Immortality here is interpreted as spiritual liberation from the cycle of action, which means freedom from repeated births and deaths. A person who maintains inner stability and self-control, despite external circumstances, is suitable for this highest goal. Arjuna is advised to develop such spiritual strength and inner balance to overcome his doubts and fears on the battlefield, as well as the difficulties of life in general.

2-16

Those who are seekers of truth have concluded that the unreal (material body) is transient, but the real (soul) remains unchanged. This they have concluded by examining the essence of both.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains the eternal nature of the soul and the transience of worldly illusions. Unreality (illusions and the material world) has no permanence, as everything related to the material world is transient and perishable. Reality (the soul), on the other hand, is eternal and cannot be destroyed. Here Krishna reminds us that the material body and worldly sensations are temporary, but the soul, which is the true reality, is immortal. This teaching helps Arjuna understand that his sorrows and fears are based on unreality (the transient material world) and that he should focus on eternal reality—the soul, which is unchanging and constant.

2-17

Know that that which pervades all this world is indestructible. No one can destroy this unchanging and eternal being.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna further explains the eternal nature of the soul. He points out that the soul, which pervades the entire world, is indestructible. This soul is the unchanging and constant reality that is present in everything that exists. Krishna emphasizes that no one—neither man nor any other force—can destroy the soul because it is eternal and immutable.

2-18

The material body in which dwells the indestructible, immeasurable, and eternal is subject to destruction. Therefore, fight, O descendant of Bharata!

Explanation: This verse once again emphasizes Krishna's teaching about the immortality of the soul and its independence from the physical world. Krishna urges Arjuna to fight with a clear mind, understanding that he will not cause real harm to the soul, as it is eternal and indestructible, and that the body is only a vessel for the soul.

2-19

He who thinks that the soul can kill, and he who thinks that it can be killed, both are in incorrect understanding. The soul neither kills nor is killed.

Explanation: This teaching is essential for Arjuna to understand that participating in the battle and the death of other warriors does not affect the true nature of the soul. The battle and its outcomes affect only the bodily level, but the soul remains eternal and cannot be influenced by actions or physical destruction. Krishna wants Arjuna to understand this reality and dismiss his fears and doubts about participating in the war.

2-20

The soul is never born and never dies. It has never begun to exist and will never cease to exist. It is unborn, eternal, permanent, and ancient; when the body is killed, the soul is not killed.

Explanation: This verse helps Arjuna understand that the body is temporary, but the soul is eternal and not subject to physical changes such as birth and death. Krishna tries to alleviate Arjuna's fears and doubts about the battle by stating that even if the body is killed, the soul remains unchanged and unaffected. This teaching about the immortality of the soul is one of the central concepts of the Bhagavad Gita and encourages Arjuna to accept his duty as a warrior without fear of physical consequences.

2-21

Oh, Partha, how can a person who knows that the soul is indestructible, eternal, unborn, and unchanging kill anyone or cause anyone to be killed?

Explanation: Krishna explains again in this verse that the destruction of the physical body does not affect the true nature of the soul. The soul is not subject to birth or death, and those who understand this do not worry about killing in the physical world, because it only affects the body, not the soul. This verse is intended to make Arjuna understand that participating in the war and the fight that causes death will not destroy the true essence—the soul. Krishna tries to free Arjuna from his fears and emotional doubts about the fight by explaining that his actions on earth are only at the material level, while nothing is lost at the soul level.

2-22

As a person lays down old clothes and puts on new ones, so the soul leaves old bodies and enters new ones.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna uses a simple and clear analogy to explain the process of the soul's reincarnation. Just as a person changes old clothes and puts on new ones, the soul leaves worn-out bodies and moves to new bodies after death. The soul is not attached to a specific body and is eternal, while the body is transient and wears out like clothes.

2-23

The soul cannot be cut by weapons, it cannot be burned by fire, it cannot be moistened by water, and it cannot be dried by wind.

Explanation: This teaching once again emphasizes that the soul is independent of the forces of the physical world and its mechanisms of destruction. Krishna encourages Arjuna to understand this spiritual truth in order to overcome the fear of fighting and death, as the soul is completely protected from physical changes.

2-24

The soul cannot be cut, burned, moistened, or dried. It is eternal, all-pervading, unmoving, and constant.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna emphasizes the eternal and unchanging nature of the soul. He explains that the soul cannot be destroyed by any physical means, such as being cut by weapons, burned by fire, moistened by water, or dried by wind. This means that the soul is completely independent of material forces and the changes of the physical world. Furthermore, the soul is eternal, all-pervading, which means that it exists in all living beings and at all times. It is unmoving, which indicates its stability and immutability. Krishna also points out that the soul is eternal and unchanging since time immemorial.

2-25

The soul is unmanifest, inconceivable to the mind, and unchanging. Knowing this, you should not grieve for it.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna continues to teach Arjuna about the immortality of the soul and its qualities. He describes the soul as unmanifest, which means it cannot be seen with sensory perception; inconceivable, which indicates that the soul cannot be fully understood by the mind or logic; and unchanging, which means that the soul is not subject to change or destruction.

2-26

Even if you consider the soul to be constantly born and dying, you still have no reason to grieve, O mighty-armed one.

Explanation: Even if the soul were subject to constant birth and death, it would be the order of nature, and grieving for this process would be futile. Krishna emphasizes here that both in spiritual understanding and in the understanding of the material life cycle, death is inevitable and natural, and even in this case, death would only be a transition from one form to another. Therefore, Arjuna should not grieve or fear the outcome of the battle.

2-27

For one who has been born, death is certain, and for one who has died, birth is certain. Therefore, you should not lament over the unavoidable.

Explanation: This verse once again calls on Arjuna to overcome his sorrow and fear, as death and birth are part of the natural law of the Universe, which does not affect the eternity of the soul. To the natural laws of the Universe explained earlier. *Natural Laws of the Universe: Duty and Justice; Law of Cause and Effect; Cycle of Birth and Death; Liberation from the continuous cycle of birth, death and rebirth; Cosmic order; Non-harming; Great cyclical changes.

2-28

All created beings are unmanifest in the beginning, manifest in the intermediary state of existence, and unmanifest again when they perish. What reason is there for lamentation?

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains the cycle of life to help Arjuna understand that grieving over the changes of life is futile. Beings are unmanifest in the beginning, which means that before birth they are not visible or physically perceptible. During life they are manifest, i.e., physically visible and perceptible, but after death they become unmanifest again. This reflects the idea that the being only transitions from one state to another, but the soul remains untouched.

2-29

One looks upon the soul as amazing, another describes it as amazing, and another hears of it as amazing, while others, even having heard of it, cannot understand it at all.

Explanation: This verse emphasizes that the soul is so complex and beyond the understanding of the physical world that it cannot be fully grasped by logic or intellect. Although many learn or hear about the soul, only a few can truly understand its eternal, unchanging, and spiritual nature.

2-30

O descendant of Bharata, the dweller in the body can never be killed. Therefore, you should not grieve for any living being.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna reiterates the immortality and indestructibility of the soul. The soul residing in the body is eternal and cannot be destroyed by physical weapons or any material means. Arjuna, who is grieving over the potential loss of his relatives in battle, is reminded that the death of the physical body is not the destruction of the soul, as the soul is eternal and independent of physical conditions.

2-31

Considering your specific duty as a mighty warrior, you should know that there is no better occupation for you than fighting based on moral principles; therefore, you have no reason to doubt.

Explanation: Krishna emphasizes that righteous warfare is a warrior's highest duty and source of happiness, as it allows one to fulfill their duty and achieve spiritual growth. For a warrior, there is no greater purpose or task than to participate in the battle for justice, and this task provides an opportunity both to achieve glory and to fulfill one's inner duty to society and the Universe. Arjuna is reminded that by ignoring his duty to fight, he would be contradicting his warrior nature, and this could have consequences for his actions. Thus, this verse calls Arjuna to overcome his doubts and fears and accept his duty as a fighter for justice.

2-32

O Partha, fortunate are the mighty warriors to whom such an opportunity for battle comes of its own accord, opening the doors to the celestial realms for them.

Explanation: For warriors, participating in such a battle is considered a sacred duty, as it offers the opportunity to achieve honor and glory, as well as the heavens. Krishna emphasizes here that it is a rarity and a privilege for this type of battle to be offered, and a warrior who accepts it gains spiritual benefit and can be rewarded with bliss after death.

2-33

On the other hand, if you do not engage in this righteous war, then, in fact, neglecting your duty and honor, you will incur sin.

Explanation: Krishna indicates that refusing to fight would mean a failure of duty for Arjuna as a warrior, which would bring dishonor and create negative consequences for his actions.

2-34

People will always speak of your infamy, and for a respectable person, dishonor is worse than death.

Explanation: Krishna also emphasizes that dishonor is worse than death. For a warrior like Arjuna, who is respected and famous as a great hero, losing his honor would be a greater tragedy than physical death. A warrior's honor and reputation are very valuable, and losing them would mean losing their purpose and dignity in society.

2-35

Great generals, who have highly valued your name and honour, will think that you have left the battlefield simply out of fear, and will consider you insignificant.

Explanation: Krishna here tries to show Arjuna that if he refuses to fight, it will spoil his reputation both in society and among his fellow combatants and allies. It is important for Arjuna to fulfil his duty as a warrior in order to maintain respect and honour not only in his own eyes but also in the eyes of others.

2-36

Your enemies will utter many harsh words and mock your abilities. What could be more painful to you than that?

Explanation: The scorn and denigration of enemies would not only be detrimental to his reputation, but also emotionally very painful, as Arjuna would be considered weaker and more cowardly than he actually is. Krishna emphasizes that such humiliation and disgrace would be even more painful than physical pain or the consequences of fighting, because honour and dignity are most important to a warrior.

2-37

If you are killed, you will attain the heavens, but if you conquer, you will rule over the earth. Therefore, O son of Kunti (Arjuna), arise and fight with determination.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna offers Arjuna two possibilities: if he is killed in battle, he will attain the heavens, which for a warrior means the highest spiritual reward. Conversely, if he wins, he will rule over the earth and enjoy the fruits of material victory. In both cases, the outcome is positive, as both victory and death are beneficial and praiseworthy.

2-38

Fight for the sake of fighting, without considering happiness or distress, loss or gain, victory or defeat – by acting thus, you will never incur sin.

Explanation: This verse emphasizes that if a person is able to accept life's changing situations equally, he remains spiritually pure and does not incur sin, because his actions are independent of the results. Krishna here teaches that selfless action is free from the negative consequences of action if it is performed with a balanced mind and without attachment to the results.

2-39

Thus far I have described this knowledge to you through analytical study. Now listen as I explain it in relation to acting without desire for the fruits. O Partha, when you act with such knowledge, you will be freed from the bonds of action.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna concludes his teachings from the perspective of Sankhya philosophy and begins to explain the path of karma-yoga, or selfless action. The Sankhya doctrine focuses on understanding the world through intellectual analysis and differentiating between the material body and the eternal soul. But now Krishna begins to explain karma-yoga – a spiritual practice based not only on theoretical knowledge, but also on practical action and spiritual discipline. Krishna indicates that by practicing karma-yoga, Arjuna will be able to free himself from the bonds of action – the consequences of actions that bind a person to the cycle of birth and death.

2-40

In this endeavor there is no loss or diminution, and even a little advancement on this path can protect one from the greatest danger.

Explanation: Krishna explains that even a small step on this path can protect a person from great dangers, such as the dangers of the cycle of birth and death, and from the negative consequences of actions. This means that even a little determination and small progress on the spiritual path brings immense benefit.

2-41

Those who are on this path are resolute in purpose, and their aim is one. O beloved son of Kuru, the intelligence of those who are irresolute is many-branched.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that for those who are determined and focused on the spiritual path, the mind and understanding are unified and directed towards a specific goal. Those who are aware of their spiritual goals follow them with firm determination, and their minds are not scattered or diverted. On the other hand, those who lack such determination are confused and their minds are scattered – they tend to be confused between different worldly goals and opportunities. These people lack a unified direction, and their mind is like a many-branched tree that seeks many paths but never reaches a specific goal. This irresolution and distraction of the mind hinders concentration on spiritual growth and leads to confusion.

2-42

Men of small knowledge are very much attached to the flowery words of the Vedas, which recommend various fruitive activities for elevation to heavenly planets, resultant good birth, power, and so forth.

Explanation: Krishna urges Arjuna not to succumb to illusory words and to understand that true spiritual growth is not related to rituals, but to a deeper understanding of the nature of the soul and liberation from actions and worldly attachments, indicating that flowery words can mislead people and divert them from the true spiritual path.

2-43

Being desirous of sense gratification and luxurious life, they say that there is nothing more than this.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains how people who are consumed by desires and cravings for material pleasures aspire to heavenly realms and perform many rituals to achieve these goals. Their minds are focused on the fruits of birth and action, which means they act to obtain personal benefit from their actions and achieve pleasure and power in this and the next life.

2-44

In the minds of those who are too attached to sense enjoyment and material opulence, and who are bewildered by such things, the resolute determination for devotional service to the Supreme Lord does not take place.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna wants to point out to Arjuna that in order to achieve spiritual development and liberation, it is necessary to renounce attachment to material goods and focus on inner determination and understanding. Only when the mind is free from desires can a person achieve deep spiritual concentration and peace.

2-45

The Vedas mostly describe the three qualities of material nature. O Arjuna, rise above these three qualities. Be free from all dualities and from all anxieties about gain and security, and be established in your true self.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains to Arjuna that the Vedas often speak of material activities related to the three material qualities (goodness, passion, and ignorance). These qualities are associated with worldly life, but Krishna urges Arjuna to rise above these three qualities to reach a higher spiritual level.

2-46

All purposes that can be accomplished by a small reservoir of water can at once be accomplished by a large reservoir of water. Similarly, all the benefits derived from the rituals of the Vedas can be attained by one who knows the true purpose of the Vedas.

Explanation: This verse teaches that for a wise, spiritually developed person who has attained spiritual enlightenment, the rituals and rules of the Vedas become an instrument, not a destination. Just as a small pond loses its significance in a large reservoir, so spiritual understanding transcends simple rituals and formal knowledge.

2-47

You have a right to perform your prescribed duty, but you are not entitled to the fruits of action. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, and never be attached to not doing your duty.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna gives one of the central teachings of the Bhagavad Gita about selfless action. He encourages Arjuna to focus on performing his duty without expecting or being attached to the results. A person has the right to their actions, but they should not try to control or claim the fruits or results of those actions.

2-48

Perform your duty equipoised, O Dhananjaya (Arjuna), abandoning all attachment to success or failure. Such equanimity is called yoga.

Explanation: Krishna encourages Arjuna to act with equanimity of mind, regardless of the outcome. Attachment to results often leads to suffering and dissatisfaction, but true yoga means being at peace with both victory and defeat. By maintaining this inner balance, one becomes free from the binding effects of action.

2-49

O Dhananjaya, keep all abominable activities far distant by devotional service, and in that consciousness surrender unto the Lord. Those who want to enjoy the fruits of their work are misers.

Explanation: Krishna urges Arjuna to seek refuge in wisdom—to act with selflessness and inner peace, not striving for personal gain. Those who are attached to the fruits of action and act only for selfish purposes are called misers, aligning with the verse, because their life's purpose is limited to material gains, which are transient and do not provide true spiritual satisfaction. Dhananjaya is one of Arjuna's titles or names. Dhananjaya literally means conqueror of wealth.

2-50

Even in this life, one whose mind is fixed in devotion can give up both good and bad reactions. Therefore strive for yoga, which is the art of all work.

Explanation: Krishna also points out that yoga is the skill of acting selflessly, in accordance with one's duty. yoga as the art of action means that a person who is established on the path of yoga practice and wisdom is able to skillfully perform their duties without attachment to the results, maintaining peace and balance.

2-51

By thus engaging in devotional service to the Lord, great sages or devotees free themselves from the results of work in the material world. In this way they become free from the cycle of birth and death and attain the state beyond all miseries [by going back to Godhead].

Explanation: These wise people reach a state that is free from suffering—it is immortal and free from all kinds of physical and mental suffering. It is the state of spiritual liberation, where the soul is freed from the bonds of action and the material world.

2-52

When your intelligence has passed out of the dense forest of delusion, you shall become indifferent to all that has been and all that is to be heard.

Explanation: When a person reaches a state of wisdom and overcomes their inner illusions, they become free from attachment to both what they have already heard (traditions, knowledge) and what is yet to be heard. This means that they become spiritually independent and free from the limitations of worldly understanding.

2-53

When your mind is no longer disturbed by the flowery language of the Vedas, and when it remains fixed in the trance of self-realization, then you will have attained the divine consciousness.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that in order to attain the state of divine consciousness, a person's mind must be stable and unaffected by the flowery language of the Vedas, which often promises material benefits and heavenly pleasures. A person who has reached this level no longer succumbs to external temptations and maintains inner peace and focus on realizing oneself and the Divine.

2-54

Arjuna inquired: O Krishna, what are the symptoms of one whose consciousness is thus merged in Transcendence? How does he speak, and what is his language? How does he sit, and how does he walk?

Explanation: With this question, Arjuna wants to know how spiritual discipline and spiritual stability practically manifest in everyday life. Arjuna, addressing Krishna as Kesava, refers to him as the all-powerful and all-controlling God, who is able to provide answers to the deepest questions about life and spirituality.

2-55

The Supreme Lord said: O Partha, when a man gives up all varieties of desire for sense gratification, which arise from mental concoction, and when his mind, thus purified, finds satisfaction in the self alone, then he is said to be in pure transcendental consciousness.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna answers Arjuna's question about the characteristics of a person who is stable in wisdom. He indicates that such a person has given up all desires that arise from the mind. This person is not attached to worldly goals or desires that are usually motivated by material interests and selfish needs. He is free from attachment because his mind is purified from the desire to acquire worldly benefits.

2-56

He whose mind remains undisturbed amidst miseries, who does not hanker after happiness, and is free from attachment, fear, and anger, is called a sage of steady mind.

Explanation: A person who is free from attachment, does not worry about suffering and does not crave pleasure is called wise, having reached spiritual maturity and stability. This verse teaches that only when a person overcomes attachment to the material and fear of life's difficulties can he be truly free and wise.

2-57

In the material world, he who is unaffected by whatever good or evil he may obtain, neither rejoicing nor lamenting, is firmly fixed in perfect knowledge.

Explanation: Stable wisdom is that which does not guide a person according to desires and emotional temptations, but keeps him equally calm in both favorable and unfavorable circumstances.

2-58

One who is able to withdraw his senses from sense objects, as a tortoise draws its limbs within its shell, is firmly fixed in wisdom.

Explanation: This verse emphasizes the importance of sense control on the path to spiritual maturity and wisdom. A person who can control his senses and not let them rule over his mind and actions is stable in wisdom and able to achieve inner peace and balance.

2-59

The embodied soul may be restricted from sense enjoyment, though the taste for sense objects remains. But, ceasing such engagements by experiencing a higher taste, he is fixed in consciousness.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that a person who refrains from sense pleasures may distance himself from sense objects, but the desire for them may remain deep in the heart. This desire does not disappear simply by abstaining, because the senses and the mind may still be attached to worldly pleasures. When a person achieves the highest experience—spiritual enlightenment or the true nature of the soul—this desire for worldly pleasures disappears on its own, because this higher experience is associated with the realization of the Divine presence. When a person experiences the highest truth, he understands that material desires are insignificant and transient compared to spiritual fulfillment.

2-60

The senses are so strong and impetuous, O Arjuna, that they forcibly carry away the mind even of a man of discrimination who is endeavoring to control them.

Explanation: Even when a person is thoughtful and reasonable, his senses can strongly influence the mind and cause a deviation from balance and spiritual discipline. Therefore, it is very important not only to try to control the mind, but also to constantly practice the discipline of sense control in order to maintain stability and concentration.

2-61

He who restrains his senses, keeping them fully under control, and fixes his consciousness upon Me, is known as a man of steady intelligence.

Explanation: A person who controls his senses and directs his mind towards God is able to maintain stable wisdom and is not subject to disturbances caused by the senses. This verse emphasizes that true wisdom is attained when the mind and senses are controlled, and a person lives with spiritual focus and inner peace.

2-62

While contemplating the objects of the senses, a person develops attachment for them, and from such attachment lust develops, and from lust anger arises.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains the process of human mind and emotions that leads to internal conflicts and suffering. When a person thinks about sense objects (wants to acquire things or enjoy worldly pleasures), attachment to these objects arises in him. This attachment further reinforces the desire for them, which is a form of passion. If desires are not satisfied, they turn into anger, which can lead to inner turmoil and further loss of mental control. This cycle—from thoughts about worldly objects to anger—is a negative state of mind that distracts a person from the spiritual path. This verse teaches that in order to avoid negative emotions and anger, it is important to control one's thoughts and not pay too much attention to worldly objects and pleasures. Spiritual growth and inner peace are possible when a person ceases attachment to sense objects and does not allow desire to rule the mind.

2-63

From anger, complete delusion arises, and from delusion bewilderment of memory. When memory is bewildered, intelligence is lost, and when intelligence is lost, one falls down again into the material pool.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna describes the emotional and spiritual regression that occurs when a person succumbs to anger. This verse emphasizes how important it is to control one's emotions, especially anger, because it can trigger a self-destructive process that leads to spiritual degradation. To achieve inner peace and wisdom, it is necessary to refrain from anger and keep the mind clear and balanced.

2-64

But a person free from all attachment and aversion and able to control his senses through regulative principles can obtain the complete mercy of the Lord.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna indicates that a person who is able to control his senses and refrain from attachment and aversion to sense objects is the one who achieves inner peace. Unlike those who give in to impulses of desire or avoidance, this person acts in accordance with his inner being and controls the senses, rather than allowing them to control him.

2-65

A person who is peaceful in this way no longer has any suffering; with such a peaceful consciousness, a person's mind soon becomes firm.

Explanation: This verse teaches that to achieve inner wisdom and freedom from suffering, it is necessary to develop peace of mind. When a person achieves this peace, his mind becomes clear, and spiritual wisdom quickly strengthens, leading to inner harmony and spiritual growth.

2-66

A person who is not connected to the Supreme cannot have transcendental intelligence or a balanced mind, without which peace is impossible. And how can there be happiness without peace?

Explanation: This verse teaches that spiritual happiness comes from the control of the mind and senses. Only when a person is united with spiritual discipline can he attain wisdom, peace, and happiness.

2-67

The mind that follows the restless senses takes away a person's wisdom, just as the wind carries a boat over the waters.

Explanation: Just as the wind carries a boat away on restless waters, the uncontrollability of the senses can divert a person from wisdom and inner peace. To achieve spiritual stability, it is important that the mind is not subject to the influence and restlessness of the senses, as such instability can lead to the scattering of the mind and the loss of understanding.

2-68

Therefore, O mighty-armed one, he whose senses are freed from contact with their objects undoubtedly has a firm mind.

Explanation: By controlling the senses and refraining from worldly temptations, a person becomes spiritually stable and attains inner peace and clarity. This control over the senses is essential for achieving clarity of mind and a deep understanding of life, which is important for living a life full of wisdom.

2-69

What is night for all beings is the time of wakefulness for the self-controlled. When beings are awake, that is the night condition for the wise.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna uses the metaphor of night and day to explain the difference between the perception and understanding of the world of a wise person (spiritually disciplined or thinker) and ordinary beings. For ordinary beings who are attached to the material world, what is clear and awake to the wise (self-controlled) seems like night—that is, it is incomprehensible and unattainable to them. They are awake when engaged in worldly affairs, but spiritual consciousness remains hidden from them. Conversely, the wise person who has attained deep inner understanding and freedom from material temptations sees the true reality that is hidden from those who are immersed in the illusions of the material world. When ordinary beings are engrossed in worldly activities and desires, this worldly activity seems like night to him—like something unimportant and distant. This verse teaches that the wise person is awake in spiritual understanding, while ordinary beings are guided by material stimuli. It emphasizes the different perceptions between those who have controlled their senses and attained wisdom and those who are still attached to the worldly.

2-70

A person who is not disturbed by the continuous flow of desires entering like rivers into the ocean, which is always still, and not the one who strives to satisfy these desires, can achieve peace.

Explanation: This verse explains that peace is attained by the one who is not attached to his desires and does not try to fulfill them. A person who is constantly craving the fulfillment of worldly desires cannot achieve true inner peace. Just as the ocean remains unchanged even when water flows into it, so too must a person be internally stable despite the temptations of external desires.

2-71

That person who gives up all desires, lives without attachment, without a sense of ownership and ego, attains peace.

Explanation: This verse teaches that peace can only be achieved when a person lives selflessly, free from desires, ego, and attachment. Such a life leads to balance and harmony both with oneself and with the surrounding world.

2-72

Such is, O Partha, the spiritual and divine state which, having attained, one no longer succumbs to delusions. If even at the hour of death a person can be in this state, he can enter the kingdom of God.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna describes the ultimate spiritual state that leads to the realization of Divine consciousness. It is a state of spiritual stability and liberation where a person, upon reaching this level, is no longer confused or succumbs to worldly illusions. Such a person gains a deep understanding of the true nature of the soul and Divine consciousness (the highest spiritual reality), becoming free from suffering and attachment. In this state, he maintains balance and peace, even as life approaches its end, and ultimately attains the realization and liberation of Divine consciousness.