rāga-dveṣha-viyuktais tu viṣhayān indriyaiśh charan
ātma-vaśhyair-vidheyātmā prasādam adhigachchhati
rāga — attachment;
dveṣha — aversion;
viyuktaiḥ — free;
tu — but;
viṣhayān — objects of the senses;
indriyaiḥ — by the senses;
charan — while using;
ātma-vaśhyaiḥ — controlling one’s mind;
vidheya-ātmā — one who controls the mind;
prasādam — the Grace of God;
adhigachchhati — attains
This verse talks about the importance of self-control and how it helps a person connect with a higher spiritual power, which in this case refers to God or Krishna. Let's break this down into simpler terms:
First, the verse mentions "controlling the senses." This means not letting our feelings or desires run our lives. For example, if someone really loves eating sweets, it can be tempting to eat them all the time. However, if that person practices self-control, they can decide to enjoy sweets in moderation instead. This ability to manage our desires and cravings is what the Gita encourages.
Next, the verse refers to those who practice "regulated principles of freedom." This means there are ways to live that promote discipline and balance, even while still enjoying life. For instance, adopting a routine for work and play, or finding time for both relaxation and activities that require effort, can be seen as regulated living. It’s about finding a rhythm that works and sticking to it.
Then, it mentions obtaining the "complete mercy of the Lord." This indicates that when someone successfully controls their senses and lives a balanced life, they can connect deeply with God’s grace or blessing. It’s like having a supportive friend who helps you make wise choices; when you treat yourself well by practicing self-control, you’re also welcoming positive energy and guidance into your life.
Further, the verse points out becoming "free from all attachment and aversion." In simpler terms, this means letting go of both strong likes and dislikes. If someone is too attached to their favorite things, they might suffer when they can’t have them. Similarly, if they’re always avoiding things they dislike, they miss out on many experiences. Learning to be neutral or balanced regarding these feelings can lead to a calmer, happier life, free from exaggerated ups and downs.
The interpretation highlights something essential: many people can try to control their senses in a superficial way, possibly through willpower alone, but that might not truly help them. If someone is only practicing self-control without understanding its deeper purpose, they may find it hard to maintain that effort.
It also explains that individuals deeply connected to Krishna may engage in activities that seem ordinary or even questionable, but their underlying intention is different. They are focused on pleasing Krishna rather than seeking their own pleasure. For instance, a person might be involved in a fun activity but is doing it with the mindset of sharing joy, especially in a community setting, rather than just for personal enjoyment.
The Gita encourages that it’s not just about making choices, but about making sure those choices are aligned with spiritual values. When someone thinks of what Krishna (or God) would want them to do, they might avoid certain things that they personally desire but know will not lead to higher happiness.
Lastly, the interpretation emphasizes that achieving this state of consciousness is a gift from God. It suggests that even while living in the physical world and performing actions like any other person, one’s focus can remain on a spiritual path, which brings about peace and clarity. Thus, managing one’s desires isn't about restriction for the sake of it, but rather about achieving a higher purpose and connection with the divine.