6-1

The Supreme Lord said: One who is unattached to the fruits of his work and who works as he ought to is the renouncer who leads a detached life, and he is the true mystic, not one who does not kindle fires and does not perform duties.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains who the true renouncer and practitioner of spiritual discipline is. It is not just a person who refrains from actions or does not maintain a fire (symbolizing that he no longer performs rituals or duties). Rather, the true renouncer and spiritually disciplined person is one who performs his duty but is not attached to the results of the action.

6-2

Understand, O son of Pāṇḍu, that renunciation is the same as the path of Divine consciousness or linking oneself with the Divine, for no one becomes a practitioner of spiritual discipline without renouncing the desire for sense gratification.

Explanation: This verse teaches that in order to achieve union with the Divine and spiritual unity, one must abandon their personal desires and focus on selfless action. The path of spiritual discipline is not just physical exercises or contemplation, but also the abandonment of inner desires and attachments to achieve spiritual freedom and peace. This path is linking oneself with the Divine through renunciation of worldly desires.

6-3

For one who is a beginner on the path of Divine consciousness, action is considered the means, but for one who has already ascended the path of Divine consciousness, cessation of all activities is said to be the means.

Explanation: This verse explains how the development of a follower of the path of spiritual discipline changes depending on their level of spiritual maturity. Krishna indicates that for those who are beginners on the path of spiritual discipline, active actions and duties are an essential means to prepare the mind and body for the spiritual path. Such actions, performed consciously and selflessly, help cultivate self-discipline, concentration skills, and moral purity. Conversely, for those who have already reached a higher level of spiritual discipline, external action is no longer so essential. At this level, the spiritual practitioner (the practitioner of inner peace) focuses on inner peace and stability of mind, which helps them maintain balance and be completely self-controlled regardless of external circumstances. Maintaining peace and mind control becomes the main means of maintaining a state of spiritual discipline.

6-4

A person who has truly renounced all material desires acts not for sense gratification but to attain the highest level of the path of Divine consciousness.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna describes the state when a person has reached the highest level of spiritual discipline. To reach this state, a person must break free from attachment to sense objects and desires and cease to be attached to material activities. This verse teaches that true spiritual growth occurs when a person is able to control their senses and act selflessly, without attachment to the material, and such a person has reached the highest level of spiritual discipline.

6-5

A man must elevate himself by his own mind, not degrade himself. The mind is the friend of the conditioned soul, and it is also its enemy.

Explanation: The mind can be both a friend and an enemy, depending on how a person manages their inner world. • One must elevate oneself – a person must work on their own mind and inner development. The mind is what can elevate a person to high spiritual levels. • One should not degrade oneself – a person should not degrade themselves or allow the mind to create negative thoughts and self-deprecation, which can hinder their spiritual development. • The mind is a friend – if a person is able to manage their mind, it becomes their friend, helping in spiritual development and giving inner peace. • The mind is an enemy – if the mind is not controlled, it becomes a person's greatest enemy, causing inner suffering and leading to negative actions. Thus, this verse emphasizes self-management and the role of the mind in human life. A controlled mind is the path to spiritual growth and inner peace, while an uncontrolled mind creates suffering and leads to inner contradictions.

6-6

For one who has conquered the mind, the mind is his friend. But for one who has failed to control the mind, the mind becomes his enemy and behaves like an adversary.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna points to mind control as a crucial factor on the spiritual path. One who is able to manage their mind gains great support and help from the mind. Conversely, one who does not manage the mind encounters the destructive power of their own mind. • The mind is a friend to one who manages it – a person who is able to control the mind transforms it into a friend. The mind in this case becomes a powerful ally, helping to develop inner peace, discipline, and spiritual growth. • The mind becomes an enemy – a person who is unable to control their mind faces internal difficulties. The mind can act as an enemy, creating unrest, doubts, and negative emotions that hinder spiritual progress.

6-7

For one who has conquered the mind, the Supersoul is already reached, for he has attained peace. For such a man, happiness and distress, heat and cold, honor and dishonor are the same.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna describes the characteristics of a spiritually stable person. One who has subdued their mind and attained inner peace is able to maintain balance regardless of external circumstances. This is a high state of spiritual unity with the Supreme Self. A person who is united with the Supreme maintains balance despite external circumstances such as cold and heat, joy and suffering, honor and insults. Their spiritual stability does not depend on physical or emotional situations.

6-8

One who is self-realized is called one who is satisfied with the knowledge he has acquired and its application. He is on the path of spiritual discipline and looks equally upon pebbles, stones, and gold.

Explanation: This verse describes the characteristics of a true practitioner of spiritual discipline. A person who is satisfied and filled with spiritual knowledge (theoretical knowledge) and understanding (applied knowledge). He finds peace and fulfillment in his inner knowledge of the true nature of life. This practitioner of spiritual discipline is as unchanging and stable as a mountain because he has been able to control his senses and does not allow them to guide his actions. He is constantly balanced. Such a person is indifferent to material value – he sees no difference between clay, stone, and gold because his happiness does not depend on material objects. He understands that these things have no true value in the context of spiritual understanding.

6-9

A person is even in a higher spiritual state if they treat well-wishers, friends, and enemies alike, as well as the indifferent, mediators, envious, and relatives, the virtuous and the sinners.

Explanation: This verse teaches about equality and a balanced mind. A person who is equal to all, regardless of relationships or circumstances, has reached a high spiritual development. This indicates an uncontaminated mind that is free from prejudice, anger, or attachment, and that is capable of seeing the Divine unity in all living beings.

6-10

A practitioner of spiritual discipline must always strive to concentrate their mind on the transcendental Self; they must live in solitude, in a secluded place, and always carefully restrain themselves. They must be free from desires and possessiveness.

Explanation: This verse teaches that in order to achieve spiritual growth and inner peace, the practitioner of spiritual discipline must be free from worldly desires and live in a focused and secluded environment where they can practice spiritual discipline and control their mind. This helps the practitioner of spiritual discipline not to become attached to material values and to achieve inner freedom. Such an environment helps to concentrate on the transcendental Self.

6-11

To practice spiritual discipline, one must find a clean place, place grass on the ground, spread a deer skin on it, and then a piece of cloth. The seat should be neither too high nor too low, and it should be in a sacred place.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna gives instructions on how to properly prepare a place for the practice of spiritual discipline. The seat should be clean, covered with grass, a deer skin, and a piece of cloth, which provides comfort and insulation from the earth's energies. The height of the seat should be moderate, and it should be in a sacred, quiet place that promotes concentration and peace.

6-12

The practitioner of spiritual discipline must sit firmly on it and practice the path of spiritual discipline to purify the heart, controlling their mind, senses, and actions, and directing the mind to one point.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna continues to explain the practice of spiritual discipline. The practitioner of spiritual discipline must sit firmly, upright, to promote energy flow and concentration. The purpose of the practice is to purify the heart from negative emotions and desires, to control the mind, senses, and actions, and to direct the mind to one point – Divine consciousness.

6-13

Holding the body, neck, and head straight in one line, with a calm mind, without fear, completely free from sexual desires.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna describes the correct body posture and inner mood during the practice of spiritual discipline. The body, neck, and head must be held straight in one line to promote proper energy flow. The mind must be calm and free from fear and sexual desires, which can distract from the spiritual goal.

6-14

The practitioner of spiritual discipline must turn their mind to Me and make Me the supreme goal of their life.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna emphasizes that during the practice of spiritual discipline, the mind must be directed towards God, towards Krishna as the Supreme Personality. God must become the supreme goal of a person's life, and all actions must be performed with thought of Him. Such concentration helps to achieve spiritual unity and liberation from the limitations of the material world. These verses teach about proper posture and inner concentration during the practice of spiritual discipline, which helps to calm the mind, get rid of fears and carnal desires, and direct all attention to God, making Him the supreme goal of one's life.

6-15

Thus, always controlling the body, mind, and actions, the practitioner of spiritual discipline, whose material body has ceased to exist, reaches the Divine abode.

Explanation: This verse explains the essence and ultimate goal of spiritual discipline. Krishna points out that by regularly practicing spiritual discipline, controlling the mind, and maintaining balance, the practitioner of spiritual discipline reaches the highest peace or Nirvana, which is Divine consciousness. • Constant focus on oneself – the path of spiritual discipline requires constant inner concentration and awareness. The practitioner directs their attention to their true nature, which lies beyond the physical and material world. • Mind control and discipline – controlling the mind is an essential prerequisite for achieving peace. Only when the mind is subdued and controlled can a person live in harmony and balance, undisturbed by external circumstances and inner desires. • Supreme peace and liberation (nirvana) – this peace is not simply a physical or emotional feeling of calm, but a deep and complete liberation from ego, attachments, and mental turmoil. This state is also called nirvana – complete freedom from material bonds and the obligations created by actions. • Unity with God – in this verse, Krishna explains that the highest peace and liberation arise when the practitioner of spiritual discipline achieves unity with God. This means that their consciousness is completely purified, and they are able to live in unity with the Divine, finding true harmony and fulfillment. This spiritual practice helps to calm the mind and achieve spiritual peace, which is freedom from the limitations of material existence, and leads to the attainment of the Divine abode.

6-16

Oh, Arjuna, it is not possible to become a practitioner of spiritual discipline if one eats too much or too little, sleeps too much or too little.

Explanation: This verse teaches about moderation and balance in life, which are essential for successfully practicing spiritual discipline. Krishna points out that eating too much or too little, sleeping or being awake too much can hinder the practice of spiritual discipline. A balanced life is the main prerequisite for achieving spiritual progress. Eating too much or too little, sleeping or being awake too much can hinder the practice of spiritual discipline. Moderation in eating is important. Eating too much can create obstacles to mental clarity, while eating too little can weaken the body and create physical obstacles to contemplation. Sleeping too much can lead to laziness and spiritual dullness, while sleeping too little can lead to physical and mental exhaustion. A balanced sleep regime ensures the balance of body and mind, which is essential for practicing spiritual discipline.

6-17

He who is moderate in his habits of eating, sleeping, working, and recreation can mitigate all material sufferings by practicing the system of spiritual discipline.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that moderation and balance in all areas of life are essential for spiritual discipline to become a means of destroying suffering. Balance between eating, resting, activities, and sleeping is important to maintain both physical and mental balance, which helps to achieve inner peace. • Moderation in eating and rest – the practitioner of spiritual discipline observes moderation in food and daily activities. Overeating or undereating, as well as excessive activities, can hinder a person's spiritual progress and cause physical and mental suffering. • Moderation in actions and efforts – the practitioner of spiritual discipline also shows moderation in actions and efforts. Too much striving or working without rest can lead to exhaustion, while too little effort can lead to laziness and unattainable progress. • Moderation in sleeping and wakefulness – the practitioner of spiritual discipline balances sleeping and wakefulness. Too much sleep leads to laziness and lack of energy, while too little sleep leads to physical and mental exhaustion. Balance in the sleep regime helps to maintain spiritual clarity. This verse emphasizes that only when a person maintains moderation and balance in daily life does spiritual discipline become a means that leads to liberation from suffering and spiritual peace. This happiness is temporary and illusory, and it leads to suffering and attachment to the material world.

6-18

When the practitioner of spiritual discipline, by practicing spiritual discipline, controls the activity of their mind, reaches the transcendental state, free from all material desires, then it is said that they are firmly established in spiritual discipline.

Explanation: This verse teaches that the practice of spiritual discipline reaches its perfection when a person has controlled their mind by focusing it on the inner self and freeing themselves from worldly desires. Only then does spiritual discipline become an effective means that helps to achieve spiritual growth and inner peace. Such a person is firmly established in spiritual discipline.

6-19

As a lamp in a windless place does not flicker, so the transcendentalist, whose mind is controlled, remains always steady in his meditation on the transcendent self.

Explanation: This verse teaches that to achieve spiritual stability, one must practice mind control and dedicate oneself to constant spiritual discipline. When the mind is controlled, a person can live peacefully and maintain inner balance despite external disturbances or challenges.

6-20

In that state called trance, or complete stillness, when one’s mind, through the practice of spiritual discipline, is entirely freed from material mental activity, one is able to see the self by the pure mind and rejoice in the self.

Explanation: This verse describes the state achieved as a result of spiritual practice, called trance or complete stillness. In this state, the mind is completely free from material influence and activity. One is able to see their true self with a pure, undisturbed mind and find deep inner joy.

6-21

In that joyous state, one is situated in boundless transcendental happiness, realized through transcendental senses. Established thus, one never departs from the truth,

Explanation: This verse continues to describe the aforementioned state, emphasizing that it provides boundless transcendental happiness, achievable through spiritual, not material, senses. A person established in this state never deviates from the truth, having directly experienced it.

6-22

and having gained which, he thinks there is no greater gain. Being situated in such a position, one is never shaken, even in the midst of the greatest difficulty.

Explanation: This verse states that upon attaining this state of spiritual unity, one realizes that nothing else is better. This realization gives them inner strength and stability, allowing them to remain unshaken even in the face of the greatest difficulties.

6-23

That is indeed actual freedom from all miseries arising from material contact.

Explanation: This verse concludes the thought of the previous verses, confirming that the described state is true freedom from all suffering arising from contact with the material world. It is a state of spiritual liberation.

6-24

One must engage in this spiritual discipline with determination and faith and not be deviated from the path. Abandoning without exception all material desires born of mental speculation, and thus subduing all the senses on all sides by mental control.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains how to practice spiritual discipline by giving up desires arising from mental speculation and attachment. To achieve spiritual perfection, one must control their senses and desires that hinder the spiritual path. • Abandoning desires – a practitioner of spiritual discipline must abandon all desires that have arisen in the mind. These desires are often superficial and related to worldly pleasures or attachments that can distract from the path of spiritual discipline. Desires must be abandoned completely, without residue, so that one can maintain peace of mind. • Power of the mind – a person must use the power of their mind to fully control the senses and prevent them from diverting him from his spiritual goal. The power of the mind must be used to control the senses and prevent them from deviating from the spiritual goal. • Complete subjugation of the senses – here it is indicated that the senses must be controlled completely, not just partially. Thus, complete control and self-management in all aspects are emphasized. This means that the practitioner is able to maintain concentration and balance, even if he is influenced by various sensory objects from the outside.

6-25

Gradually, step by step, with understanding carried by conviction, one should become situated in trance by means of intelligence, and thus the mind should be fixed on the self alone and should think of nothing else.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna provides guidance on how to gradually achieve the depth of meditation and mind control necessary to understand one's true nature. He emphasizes that spiritual discipline is a long and patient process that requires perseverance and wisdom. • Gradual control of the mind – it is not possible to control the mind immediately, so it is important to approach it gradually. With patience and perseverance, one must learn to gradually guide their mind to achieve peace and stillness. • Understanding and conviction – Krishna indicates that both wisdom and conviction are necessary for mind control. Wisdom helps to understand the nature of the mind and to distinguish temporary thoughts from the unchanging nature of the soul, while conviction helps to overcome the mind's resistance and distractions that may arise along the way. • Turning the mind towards the soul – the practitioner must direct their mind towards their true nature – the soul. This turning towards the inner essence helps to free oneself from attachment to external objects and mental experiences, allowing one to fully focus on their soul. During meditation, the mind must be restrained from any worldly thoughts or worries. • Thinking of nothing else – during meditation, the mind must be restrained from any worldly thoughts or worries. The silence of the mind allows one to become aware of inner peace and brings the practitioner closer to their true nature.

6-26

From wherever the mind wanders due to its flickering and unsteady nature, one must certainly withdraw it and bring it back under the control of the self.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna points to mind control as an essential part of spiritual discipline practice. The mind is restless and unstable, often wandering to external objects or thoughts, but one must be determined to bring the mind back to the inner self and control it. • The restless mind wanders – the mind by its very nature is restless and unstable, it often wanders from one object to another, from one thought to the next. This restlessness creates difficulties in concentration and spiritual practice. • From there to bring it back again – the practitioner of spiritual discipline is responsible for bringing the mind back again and again from the places where it wanders. This is a continuous practice – every time the mind wanders, it must be pulled back. • Direct the mind towards the soul – the mind must be directed towards the soul, towards the inner self, as it is the path to spiritual peace and self-knowledge. Mind control is essential to maintain focus on the spiritual path and realize one's true self.

6-27

The yogi whose mind is fixed on Me verily attains the supreme perfection of happiness. He is beyond the mode of passion, he realizes his qualitative oneness with the Supreme, and thus all his reactions to past deeds cease.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna describes the state attained by the practitioner of spiritual discipline when their mind is calmed and they are free from passions. In this state, they achieve the highest happiness and become one with the Divine reality. • Peaceful mind – when a practitioner of spiritual discipline has completely calmed their mind and is free from mental unrest and worldly distractions, they achieve deep inner peace. A peaceful mind is a prerequisite for experiencing supreme spiritual happiness. • Achieves supreme happiness – supreme happiness here means spiritual happiness that arises from inner peace and mental balance. A practitioner of spiritual discipline who is free from passions experiences this supreme spiritual happiness, which is not related to worldly pleasures or material desires. • Free from passions – passions are what cause unrest, desires and discord. A practitioner of spiritual discipline who is free from passions is able to maintain spiritual peace and become stable in their consciousness. They are free from the material qualities of passions that make a person constantly seek external stimuli. • One with the Divine – when a practitioner of spiritual discipline is pure and free from sins, they become one with the Divine consciousness. In this state, the practitioner of spiritual discipline is free from suffering and lives in unity with the Divine reality. • Pure and unpolluted – the practitioner of spiritual discipline is pure because they have freed themselves from sins and the pollution associated with worldly life. This purity allows them to live in spiritual fullness and harmony with the Divine.

6-28

Thus the self-controlled yogi, constantly engaged in yoga practice, becomes free from all material contamination and achieves the highest perfectional stage of happiness in being one with the Supreme.

Explanation: This verse describes how a practitioner of spiritual discipline, who constantly practices spiritual discipline and has purified themselves from all sins, achieves the highest spiritual happiness because they are in contact with the Divine consciousness. This spiritual unity with the Divine brings deep satisfaction and inner peace. In this state, one achieves the highest happiness by being in contact with the Divine consciousness. • Constantly connecting oneself with the soul – the practitioner of spiritual discipline is constantly connected with their soul, which means that they are constantly focused on inner consciousness. This continuous practice ensures spiritual balance and inner peace. • Purified from all sins – by practicing spiritual discipline, they become purified from sins and worldly contamination. Their mind and soul are free from actions and the negative consequences that hinder spiritual development. • In contact with the Divine – this contact means unity with the Divine consciousness, which leads to spiritual perfection. • Experiences the highest happiness – When a practitioner of spiritual discipline is in contact with the Divine consciousness, they experience the highest happiness, which is a state of spiritual satisfaction and inner peace. This happiness does not depend on external circumstances but is inner peace and spiritual fulfillment.

6-29

A true practitioner of spiritual discipline sees himself in all beings and all beings in himself. Indeed, a self-realized person sees Me, the same Supreme Lord of all, everywhere.

Explanation: This verse teaches that upon reaching the highest state of spiritual discipline, a person sees the unity between all living organisms and does not differentiate anyone based on worldly criteria. Spiritual discipline leads to a deep understanding that we are all connected in a unified Divine consciousness, which leads to peace, equality, and harmony among all beings.

6-30

He who sees Me everywhere and sees everything in Me, I am never lost to him, nor is he ever lost to Me.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains the main goal of the practice of spiritual discipline – unity with the Divine. One who can see the Divine Krishna everywhere and understands that everything exists in Divine consciousness achieves complete unity with God. This unity makes the person inseparable from God, and God never leaves him either. • Sees Me everywhere – one who has attained spiritual consciousness sees the Divine presence everywhere and in all beings. He understands that God is everywhere, and sees Krishna in every living being and every event in life is connected to the Divine. • And sees everything in Me – one who understands that everything that exists is part of Divine consciousness. Everything is created by God and resides in His presence, and Divine energy is the basis of everything. Therefore, he sees God in everything around him. • I am never lost to him – Krishna says that if a person sees the Divine everywhere, God is never lost to him. The person never loses his connection with the Divine because his consciousness is completely unified with God. • Nor is he ever lost to Me – In the same way, Krishna affirms that the practitioner of spiritual discipline is also never lost to God. When a person has attained spiritual unity with the Divine, he becomes an inseparable part of God and is never abandoned or forgotten. This verse describes the highest state of spiritual unity, in which a person sees the Divine everywhere and understands that everything exists in Divine consciousness. The practitioner of spiritual discipline and God become inseparable, and eternal unity reigns between them.

6-31

The practitioner of spiritual discipline who honors Me as the Supreme Soul dwelling in the heart of everyone and realizes that I am one with all, always remains in Me, whatever his external circumstances may be.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna teaches that a person who understands the Divine presence in all beings and practices unity with this consciousness is always united with God. This unity does not depend on external circumstances or situations because it is a deep inner understanding of the unity of all beings. • Divine presence in all beings – the practitioner of spiritual discipline sees that the Divine (Krishna, Divine consciousness) is present in all beings. This means being aware that in every living creature there is a spark of the soul, which is part of the Divine consciousness. This view develops respect and compassion for all beings, as one realizes that all living beings are interconnected in Divine unity. • Practicing unity with God – here the practitioner of spiritual discipline not only recognizes the Divine everywhere but also practices unity with this consciousness, seeking unity with Krishna. This means living in accordance with Divine principles and complete reliance on God. This unity is internal and does not depend on external circumstances or place. • Independence from external circumstances – this state of unity is not affected by situations in the external world. Whatever circumstances or difficulties the practitioner of spiritual discipline may face, he remains united with the Divine because this unity is internal and unbreakable. • State of unity with Me – when a person experiences this unity with God, he merges with the Divine consciousness and lives in harmony with all beings, maintaining peace and balance. This state is the goal of spiritual discipline, which allows one to experience a constant connection with God and inner fulfillment.

6-32

He who sees all beings equally, perceiving their joy and suffering just like his own, is considered the highest practitioner of spiritual discipline, O Arjuna.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains the highest achievement of spiritual discipline – a compassionate and equal view of all living beings. Such an attitude requires understanding and empathy, perceiving the suffering and joy of all living beings as one's own. It is a state of compassion and equality that leads to spiritual perfection. This understanding helps Arjuna free himself from egoism and feel a deep unity with all that exists, as he realizes Krishna's presence in everything. • Compassionate and equal attitude – the highest practitioner of spiritual discipline is able to feel the suffering and joy of other beings as his own. This view allows one to overcome the differences created by ego and provides true empathy and compassion, which promotes harmony with all living things. • Comparing with oneself – a person must see other beings as he sees himself. This means realizing that all beings want happiness and want to avoid suffering, just like himself. This understanding creates an equal attitude towards everyone, recognizing the common desire for happiness and freedom from suffering. • Perfection of the highest spiritual discipline – Krishna emphasizes that such an equal and compassionate consciousness is the highest achievement of the practitioner of spiritual discipline. Only when a person is able to see everyone as equal and feel their joy and suffering as his own does he achieve true unity with the Divine. • Transition from egoism to unity – this state leads to inner freedom from ego and gives a person deep inner peace and balance. Such an attitude promotes a deeper understanding of life and spiritual unity with all creation.

6-33

Arjuna said: O Madhusudana, the system of spiritual discipline that You have described seems impractical and unbearable to me, because the mind is restless and unstable.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna reveals his doubt about the difficulties of practicing spiritual discipline, especially emphasizing the restlessness of the mind. He points out that the mind is unstable and unpredictable, therefore the path of spiritual discipline seems difficult for him to implement. Arjuna addresses Krishna as Madhusudana, which is Krishna's name, indicating His ability to overcome difficulties.

6-34

For the mind is restless, strong, obstinate and very difficult to subdue, O Krishna. It seems to me that subduing it is more difficult than stopping the wind.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna continues to express his doubts about controlling the mind. He describes the qualities of the mind that make it so difficult to subdue and compares this process to subduing the wind, which seems almost impossible.

6-35

Lord Krishna said: O mighty-armed son of Kunti, without a doubt, it is very difficult to subdue the restless mind, yet with persistent practice and detachment it is achievable.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna responds to Arjuna's concerns about mind control, agreeing that the mind is difficult to subdue, but he points to two important principles that help subdue the mind – practice and renunciation. • The mind is difficult to subdue and restless – Krishna acknowledges that the mind is restless, it constantly changes, wanders and deviates from concentration. Subduing it is a difficult task and requires a lot of discipline and strength. • Without a doubt – Krishna emphasizes that there is no doubt that the mind is very difficult to control, agreeing with Arjuna that this is a major challenge on the spiritual path. • With practice – Krishna indicates that subduing the mind is possible due to constant practice. Regular contemplation and the practice of spiritual discipline help calm the mind and make it controllable. Practice is the main means to achieve mental discipline. • With detachment – in addition to practice, detachment or non-attachment to material things and worldly desires also helps in controlling the mind. Renunciation of the desire for material results and attachments reduces the restlessness of the mind and allows one to focus on the spiritual.

6-36

For one whose mind is uncontrolled, self-realization is a difficult task. But he who has subdued the mind and strives with appropriate means will surely succeed. Such is My opinion.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna points out that subduing the mind is an essential prerequisite for achieving the perfection of spiritual discipline. He explains that without mind control, spiritual discipline is difficult to achieve, but with a subdued mind and persistent effort, the path of spiritual discipline becomes possible. • Uncontrolled mind – Krishna explains that if the mind is not subdued, it interferes with the practice of spiritual discipline and makes it almost impossible. An uncontrolled mind is restless, wanders from one object to another, and therefore a person is unable to achieve concentration or inner peace. • Spiritual discipline is difficult to achieve – if the mind is restless, the practice of spiritual discipline becomes difficult because the person lacks the concentration and inner balance that are necessary to achieve the highest state of spiritual discipline – unity with the Divine. • With a subdued mind – when the mind is subdued, a person is able to concentrate on spiritual practice and control desires and emotions. A subdued mind allows a person to experience deeper contemplation and achieve spiritual consciousness. • With persistent effort – in addition to subduing the mind, persistent effort and discipline are needed. Spiritual discipline requires regular practice and patience to achieve spiritual growth. • Using the right means – to achieve the highest state of spiritual discipline, it is necessary to use the right means, such as practice, discipline, and renunciation of worldly attachments. Properly chosen means lead to mind control and inner peace.

6-37

Arjuna asked: O Krishna, what is the fate of a practitioner of spiritual discipline who begins this path with faith, but later, due to worldly desires, is unable to complete it and does not attain the perfection of spiritual discipline?

Explanation: This verse expresses Arjuna's doubts and asks if there is any benefit for a person who does not complete his spiritual path in the practice of spiritual discipline.

6-38

O mighty-armed Krishna, does not a person who has strayed from the transcendental path lose both spiritual and material gains and perish like a scattered cloud, finding refuge in no state?

Explanation: This verse reveals Arjuna's doubts about whether a person who deviates from the path of spiritual discipline can lose both material and spiritual achievements, remaining without direction and confused.

6-39

It is You alone, O Krishna, who are able to completely dispel these doubts of mine. No one but You can remove these doubts.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna asks Krishna to dispel his doubts about the path of spiritual discipline and about the fate of a person who deviates from spiritual discipline. He acknowledges that only Krishna, who is Divine Consciousness, is capable of completely dispelling his doubts, as no one else possesses such knowledge and wisdom.

6-40

The Supreme Lord said: O Partha, the practitioner of spiritual discipline who performs auspicious actions does not perish either in this world or in the spiritual world. One who does good, My friend, is never overcome by evil.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna reassures Arjuna by explaining that a person who has strived on the spiritual path never loses their spiritual progress. Neither in this world nor in the next does a person who practices spiritual discipline and does good experience ruin or failure.

6-41

The practitioner of spiritual discipline who has deviated from the path, after many years spent on the planets of the righteous, is born into a family of pious or wealthy people.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains what happens to those who deviate from the path of spiritual discipline but are still pious and spiritually advanced. Such a person, after death, gains the opportunity to live in the worlds of pious people, but then returns to Earth, being born into a family of pure and noble people to continue their spiritual path. This means that spiritual knowledge and pure service to God are the path to true liberation, which transcends mere ethical principles and rituals, and this service includes love, surrender, and complete trust in God. • Reaches the worlds of pious people – a person who has deviated from the path of spiritual discipline, yet retains piety, gains the opportunity to live in worlds inhabited by those who perform good deeds and possess divine qualities. • Living for extended years – this person lives in these pious worlds for many years, gaining rest and spiritual progress before returning to Earth to continue their path to liberation. • Being born into a pure and noble family – when this person returns to Earth, they are born into a pure and noble family, which provides a favorable environment for further spiritual growth. A pure and noble family provides moral foundations and material support so that the person can perfect themselves. • Deviated from spiritual discipline – This refers to a person who has incompletely fulfilled the practice of spiritual discipline, but whose good deeds and piety provide them with new opportunities to continue their spiritual path in the next life. This verse teaches that spiritual progress is never lost. Even if a person incompletely fulfills their practice of spiritual discipline, their spiritual efforts will be rewarded in the next life, providing them with favorable conditions for further growth. This makes it clear that the spiritual path is continuous and continues even after this life.

6-42

Or he is born into a family of practitioners of spiritual discipline who possess great wisdom. Truly, such a birth in this world is very rare.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that a person who has deviated from the path of spiritual discipline can be born into a family of wise and spiritually conscious practitioners of spiritual discipline. Such a birth is a special blessing, as it provides the most favorable conditions for a person to continue their spiritual path. Being born into such a family is a very rare and valuable opportunity. • Or he is born into a family of wise practitioners of spiritual discipline – Krishna indicates that such a person can be born into a family of spiritual discipline practitioners where the parents are wise, spiritually advanced, and knowledgeable about the path of spiritual discipline. Such an environment provides inspiration and support for the person to continue their spiritual path. • In a family of wise and conscious people – this indicates that in this family there is wisdom and spiritual understanding, which helps a person develop their spiritual abilities and higher values. It is a particularly favorable environment that promotes spiritual growth. • Such a birth is very rare – Krishna explains that such a birth is very rare and is a great blessing, as being born into a spiritually advanced family provides a unique opportunity to progress faster on the spiritual path. This verse emphasizes that if a person deviates from the path of spiritual discipline, they may be given another opportunity to be reborn into a family that has high spiritual ideals. Such an environment provides inspiration and support for the person to continue their spiritual path.

6-43

O son of Kuru's lineage, upon being reborn into such a family, he revives the divine consciousness from his previous life and strives again for success in attaining complete liberation.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that if a person is born into a spiritually advanced family, they re-establish a connection with the knowledge and spiritual discipline practices acquired in their previous life. This allows them to continue the path to spiritual perfection, rather than starting from the beginning. Such a person strives again to attain the highest spiritual perfection. • The mind's union with the previous life – a person who is reborn into a spiritually advanced family re-establishes a connection with the previous life, gaining the wisdom and knowledge they acquired in the previous life. They already have knowledge and spiritual maturity, which promotes rapid progress. • Strives again to attain perfection – this person strives again to attain spiritual perfection, continuing their previously begun path. They strive to attain liberation and the complete practice of spiritual discipline, continuing to accumulate spiritual knowledge. • O Kurunandana – Krishna addresses Arjuna as Kurunandana, indicating his belonging to the Kuru lineage and the historical responsibility to be a leader and guide on the spiritual path.

6-44

Due to the divine consciousness of the previous life, he is involuntarily drawn to the principles of spiritual discipline. Such a curious practitioner of spiritual discipline, who seeks to explore the path of Divine Consciousness, always rises above the Vedic rituals.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that a person who has practiced spiritual discipline in a previous life is even involuntarily drawn back to the path of spiritual discipline in the next life. The practice of the previous life provides a foundation that makes this attraction natural and automatic. Even if a person only wants to explore spiritual discipline, they rise above the level of Vedic rituals and approach higher spiritual understanding. • With the practice of the previous life – this reference is to spiritual practice from a previous life. Spiritual discipline and other spiritual efforts are not forgotten; they continue to influence future lives, making a person's movement towards the path of spiritual discipline easier. • Is involuntarily drawn – a person who has practiced spiritual discipline in a previous life is automatically and unconsciously drawn back to the path of spiritual discipline in the next life as well. Even if they do not consciously plan it, their soul strives for spiritual growth. • Even if he only wanted to explore spiritual discipline – even if a person is not completely dedicated to the practice of spiritual discipline but only shows interest in exploring spiritual discipline, their curiosity and desire for spiritual understanding allow them to progress on the path of spiritual discipline. • Surpasses Vedic rituals – such a person rises above the level of Vedic rituals, which are external rituals and formal actions. He reaches a higher level of spiritual understanding that transcends rituals and leads to deeper consciousness and spiritual understanding.

6-45

And when the practitioner of spiritual discipline earnestly strives for further perfection, freeing himself from all impurities, then, finally, after many, many lifetimes of spiritual discipline practice, he attains the highest goal.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that a practitioner of spiritual discipline who persistently strives and purifies themselves from sins, continuing their spiritual practice over several lifetimes, ultimately attains the highest goal – liberation and unity with the Divine. • Striving persistently – a practitioner of spiritual discipline who continuously and fervently practices spiritual discipline, despite difficulties and challenges, continues their path towards spiritual perfection. Diligence and discipline are essential in this process. • Purified from all sins – through persistent practice, the practitioner of spiritual discipline purifies himself from all sins and impurities that block his spiritual growth. By purifying the mind and heart, he becomes pure and spiritually strong. • Perfects himself after many lifetimes – spiritual perfection is often attained after several lifetimes. A practitioner of spiritual discipline who continues their spiritual path over several lifetimes gradually perfects themselves until they reach perfection. • Reaches the highest goal – when the practitioner of spiritual discipline has perfected themselves, they reach the highest goal, which is liberation from material existence and unity with the Divine. This is the ultimate goal of spiritual discipline.

6-46

The practitioner of spiritual discipline is superior to the ascetic, to the empiricist, and to the performer of fruitive actions. Therefore, O Arjuna, in all circumstances be a practitioner of spiritual discipline!

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that a practitioner of spiritual discipline, that is, a person who practices spiritual discipline and contemplation, is higher than ascetics, scholars, and performers of actions. The practice of spiritual discipline is the path that leads to the highest spiritual perfection, as it combines knowledge, actions, and spiritual discipline. • The practitioner of spiritual discipline is higher than the ascetic practitioner – Ascetics who practice strict asceticism and self-restraint are respectable, but the practitioner of spiritual discipline is higher because they not only restrain themselves but also align their mind with Divine consciousness. • The practitioner of spiritual discipline is higher than the knowledgeable – people who have theoretical knowledge of spiritual matters are admirable, but the practitioner of spiritual discipline is higher because they apply this knowledge in practice, achieving direct experience through contemplation and spiritual discipline. • The practitioner of spiritual discipline is higher than those who perform actions – performers who perform selfless action are worthy, but the practitioner of spiritual discipline is higher because they not only work but also spiritually develop themselves and turn to God, connecting action and contemplation. • Therefore, become a practitioner of spiritual discipline – Krishna urges Arjuna to become a practitioner of spiritual discipline because it is the highest path to spiritual growth and liberation. He indicates that the path of spiritual discipline is the one that leads to complete unity with the Divine.

6-47

And of all the practitioners of spiritual discipline, the one who always abides in Me with great faith, thinks of Me within himself, and serves Me with transcendental love, is most intimately united with Me and is the highest of all – such is My opinion.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna concludes the description of spiritual discipline, stating that among all practitioners of spiritual discipline, the one who worships Him with complete faith and turns his mind and soul towards the Divine is the highest. Such a practitioner of spiritual discipline not only practices contemplation and mental discipline but also turns to the Divine with complete faith. • Among all practitioners of spiritual discipline – Krishna indicates that, although there are many different types of spiritual discipline practitioners, those engaged in the spiritual discipline of knowledge, the spiritual discipline of action, and the spiritual discipline of contemplation, the highest is the one who is directed towards the Divine and worships it with complete faith. • With mind and soul turned towards Me – this practitioner of spiritual discipline is fully focused on God, both with his mind and inner self. His soul is directed towards Divine consciousness, which makes him one with the Divine. • With complete faith – this practitioner of spiritual discipline not only practices spiritual discipline but also has complete faith in God. Faith is the foundation that helps him remain true to the Divine path and dedicate his life to the worship and service of God. • Worships Me – such a practitioner of spiritual discipline is the one who worships God with devotion. He sees the Divine as his refuge and has completely dedicated himself to serving God. • The highest practitioner of spiritual discipline – Krishna says that such a practitioner of spiritual discipline, who has completely dedicated himself to God, is the highest among all practitioners of spiritual discipline. He has reached perfection because his life is united with Divine consciousness.