2.72 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 2, Verse 72

In this culminating verse of the second chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna reveals the lofty position attained by a person of steady wisdom, or sthita-prajna. Krishna declares that one who reaches this state of consciousness—firmly rooted in the realization of the eternal self—remains unwavering, free from illusion or confusion about their true nature. This clarity bestows a deep sense of peace, as the individual ceases to be disturbed by the fluctuations of the world around them, standing resolute regardless of life’s changing circumstances.

The verse introduces the concept of “brahmi sthiti,” the state of being established in Brahman, the eternal spirit. When someone attains and abides in this state, Krishna assures that delusion can no longer touch them. The person is no longer ensnared by misidentification with the body or ego, nor by attachments and aversions that drive ordinary human behavior. Instead, they experience an abiding serenity, derived from the knowledge of the unchanging reality within. This marks the pinnacle of spiritual realization described in this chapter.

A distinctive aspect of Krishna’s message here is that this state isn’t a fleeting or esoteric experience but a practical, living reality for the spiritually awakened. The sthita-prajna carries their inner stability into all aspects of worldly life. While such a person still engages with the external world—performing duties, interacting with others—they do so without being shaken by praise or criticism, gain or loss. Their actions are no longer motivated by fleeting desires or fears but flow from an unwavering center of inner calm.

Perhaps the most profound assurance Krishna offers is concerning the moment of death. He states that if a person is established in this state of realization—this brahmi sthiti—even at the time of death, they attain “brahma-nirvana,” oneness with Brahman, the state of ultimate spiritual liberation. This means such a soul is not subject to bewilderment or anxiety at life’s end, but passes on to a dimension of eternal existence, untouched by the cycle of birth and rebirth.

Unlike other philosophies that may suggest the end of existence is a void, here Krishna describes the conclusion of material life as merging into unending spiritual bliss—nirvana that is positive, conscious, and full of beatitude. This is an existence characterized by complete fulfillment, free from all mundane limitations and sufferings.

Through this verse, the Bhagavad Gita draws a clear distinction between living an ordinary life—reactive, confused, and transient—and one founded upon spiritual wisdom. The sthita-prajna is not simply a philosopher or thinker, but someone who has internalized knowledge so deeply that it transforms their very response to reality. Their steadfastness is not just theoretical, but lived: they become living exemplars of spiritual maturity.

This teaching carries a quiet but powerful invitation. While most people seek security and happiness through external achievements, Krishna points to an unshakable inner foundation as the highest wealth one can possess. The journey to this state is gradual and requires both discernment and persistent effort, but its ultimate reward is total freedom—not just from external turmoil, but from all forms of inner unrest.

Thus, the final verse of Chapter 2 sums up the chapter’s journey from confusion and sorrow to clarity and liberation. It assures that the wisdom gained by the steady-minded not only brings peace and fearlessness in life, but also the greatest victory of all—freedom at the moment of death. This is the summit toward which Krishna has been leading Arjuna, and toward which the Gita directs all sincere seekers.