व्यवसायात्मिका बुद्धिरेकेह कुरूनन्दन ।
बहुशाखा ह्यनन्ताश्च बुद्धयोऽव्यवसायिनाम् ॥ ४१ ॥
vyavasāyātmikā buddhir ekeha kuru-nandana
bahu-śhākhā hyanantāśh cha buddhayo ’vyavasāyinām
हे कुरुनंदन! इस मार्ग पर चलने वालों की बुद्धि में तीक्ष्णता होती है और वह एक ही लक्ष्य पर केंद्रित होती है, जबकि जो मनुष्य दृढ़ निश्चयी नहीं होते उनकी बुद्धि अनेक दिशाओं में बिखर जाती है।
O son of the Kurus! The intelligence of those on this path is one-pointed and focused on one goal, whereas the intelligence of those who are not determined is scattered across many branches.
Verse 2.41 of the Bhagavad Gita presents a profound contrast between two types of intelligence. Krishna tells Arjuna: "O descendent of the Kurus, the intellect of those who are on this path is resolute, and their aim is one-pointed. But the intellect of those who are irresolute are many-branched and infinite."
In this verse, Krishna introduces a fundamental principle of spiritual advancement through the concept of focused intelligence (vyavasāyātmikā buddhi). He explains that those who practice Karma Yoga—the path of selfless action—possess a singular, unwavering determination toward their spiritual goal. Their minds are not scattered but remain firmly fixed on their purpose.
The Sanskrit term "vyavasāya" used by Krishna is particularly revealing as it relates to business or enterprise, suggesting the kind of single-minded focus that successful entrepreneurs demonstrate. Just as a businessman concentrates intensely on profitability, a spiritual practitioner must maintain unwavering attention on their spiritual development. This one-pointed intelligence becomes the foundation for progress on the spiritual path.
In contrast, Krishna describes the minds of the irresolute (avyavasāyinām) as "many-branched" (bahu-śākhā) and "endless" (anantāś). This vividly illustrates how an unfocused mind constantly jumps from one desire to another, creating a maze of endless distractions. Without a clear spiritual aim, the intellect becomes fragmented, pursuing countless material objectives simultaneously, ultimately leading to confusion and spiritual stagnation.
This verse marks the beginning of Krishna's practical guidance to Arjuna—a toolkit of techniques for maintaining equanimity while performing one's duties (svadharma). The first technique is maintaining constant focus on the goal: achieving equanimity of mind in all situations. Krishna advises making a firm internal commitment to this singular aim, letting go of desires unrelated to one's spiritual path.
When we examine this verse in the context of modern life, its relevance becomes even more apparent. We live in an age of unprecedented distractions, with technology, entertainment, and countless options competing for our attention. The human mind, naturally restless, becomes increasingly scattered without a worthy goal to anchor it. This verse reminds us that without purposeful direction, the mind drifts aimlessly, pulled in countless directions by fleeting desires and external stimuli.
Krishna's wisdom in this verse ultimately points to a universal truth: determination and focus are not just spiritual qualities but essential elements for success in any meaningful endeavor. By cultivating a one-pointed intelligence directed toward our highest purpose, we gain the ability to navigate life's complexities with clarity and resolve. The verse invites us to examine where our attention is directed and to consciously cultivate the focused intelligence that leads to both spiritual advancement and fulfillment in our daily lives.
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