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Bhagwad Gita (English) | Chapter 2 | Verse 41

Chapter 2, Verse 41

Contents of the Gita Summarized

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


Verse

व्यवसायात्मिका बुद्धिरेकेह कुरुनन्दन।
बहुशाखा ह्यनन्ताश्च बुद्धयोऽव्यवसायिनाम्।।2.41।।


vyavasāyātmikā buddhir ekeha kuru-nandana
bahu-śhākhā hyanantāśh cha buddhayo ’vyavasāyinām

Meaning of each word

vyavasāya-ātmikā — resolute;
buddhiḥ —
intellect;
ekā —
single;
iha —
on this path;
kuru-nandana —
descendent of the Kurus;
bahu-śhākhāḥ —
many-branched;
hi —
indeed;
anantāḥ —
endless;
cha —
also;
buddhayaḥ —
intellect;
avyavasāyinām —
of the irresolute

Interpretation

In this verse, Lord Krishna is explaining the idea of determination and focus in our lives. He says that people who truly follow this spiritual path have a clear and single goal. They are like a tree with a strong trunk, meaning their purpose is solid and straightforward. On the other hand, those who are unsure of themselves have minds that are scattered, like a tree with many branches going in different directions.

To understand this deeper, let’s think about how we approach life and our goals. When someone is determined and focused on a goal, they can achieve great things. Imagine you want to learn a musical instrument. If you practice consistently and have a teacher guiding you, you will improve. Your aim is clear—to play well, and everything you do supports that goal. This is what Krishna means by having a "resolute" mind.

Krishna's teaching emphasizes the importance of guidance. Just like a student needs a good teacher to learn music, in spiritual matters, it is essential to have an experienced mentor—in this case, a spiritual master who truly knows Krishna's teachings. This master helps you understand yourself and gives direction so you can grow in your spiritual practice.

Now let’s look at the opposite. If someone is not focused—let’s say they keep switching interests, trying to learn many instruments but never sticking to one. They might have a bit of knowledge in everything, but they won’t excel at any. This is comparable to having a mind filled with many ideas but none of them leading anywhere.

Krishna urges us to have strong faith in the spiritual path. This faith isn't just about believing in something; it is about living that faith through our actions and decisions. It means that we should try to live by the teachings of our spiritual guide and strive to deepen our understanding of the soul and our purpose in life.

In summary, Krishna is encouraging focus and determination in our spiritual journey. By having one clear goal and following a knowledgeable guide, we can avoid the distractions that come from an uncertain and scattered mind. This focused approach can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.


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