Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Verse 53 (BG 2.53) — Meaning, Translation & Commentary

2.53 श्रुतिविप्रतिपन्ना perplexed by what hast heard? ते thy? यदा when? स्थास्यति shall stand? निश्चला immovable? समाधौ in the Self? अचला steady? बुद्धिः intellect? तदा then? योगम् Selfrealisation? अवाप्स्यसि (thou) shalt attain.Commentary When your intellect which is tossed about by the conflict of opinions regarding the Pravritti Marga (the path of action) and the Nivritti Marga (the path of retirement or renunciation) has become immovable without distraction and doubt and firmly established in the Self? then thou shalt attain Selfrealisation or knowledge of the Self (AtmaJnana).

Commentaries

Contemporary scholarly and practical interpretations for modern seekers.

This interpretation draws on a specific tradition and may not represent the view of any single school. For authoritative guidance within a specific tradition, seek a qualified teacher.

Modern

When the intellect remains unwavering even as the five senses engage with their objects, one is said to be established in yoga. Ordinarily, the mind becomes agitated through countless distractions as the senses perceive their objects. The mind of one established in yoga remains unmoved amidst all these disturbances. The characteristics of one of steadfast wisdom shall be expounded further in what follows. Some commentators interpret this verse to mean that one whose intellect is not shaken upon hearing the seemingly contradictory doctrines of various philosophers is established in yoga. Through the reasoning presented thus far, Arjun's interest begins to awaken, and the grip of despair loosens. Forgetting his sorrow and anguish, he finds himself drawn to Krishna's discourse. His eagerness to know the marks of a wise person cannot be restrained. His question reveals that he is beginning to grasp the Lord's teaching, yet something within him prevents him from accepting it completely. Seizing the opportunity to ask, Arjun inquires with keen desire to know the characteristics of one whose intellect is established in equanimity.