6.25 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 6, Verse 25

In Bhagavad Gita 6.25, Krishna outlines a key principle for anyone seeking mastery over the mind through yoga and meditation. The verse opens with the phrase “śanaiḥ śanaiḥ,” meaning “gradually, step by step.” This sets the tone for the entire teaching: spiritual growth, especially in controlling the restless mind, is a process that unfolds over time. There is no shortcut to deep meditation—much like a river is crossed stroke by stroke, inner tranquility is achieved one focused effort at a time. Krishna is instructing the yogi to be patient and persistent, recognizing that transformation is not immediate but is absolutely possible if pursued in the right manner.

Central to this verse is the method by which the mind is to be brought under control. Krishna emphasizes the use of intelligence (“buddhyā”) fortified by conviction (“dhṛti-gṛhītayā”). Here, intelligence represents the capacity to discern what brings lasting fulfillment versus what gives fleeting pleasure. Conviction, on the other hand, is unwavering faith in the efficacy of the practice itself. The interplay of these two—clear, steady reason and firm determination—serves as the anchor for the mind as it is guided inward. Without this combination, even the wisest advice or most promising techniques can falter, as the seeker may lose heart or direction.

Krishna instructs that the mind, aided by such disciplined intelligence and conviction, should be drawn away from external sense objects and fixed on the self (“ātma-saṁsthaṁ manaḥ kṛtvā, na kiñcid api cintayet”—make the mind rest in the self and think of nothing else). This step, known in yoga as pratyāhāra, is about the withdrawal of the senses from the external world. Just as a tortoise draws its limbs inside its shell, the yogi is encouraged to gradually turn the mind inward, moving away from the distractions and temptations of sensory life. The process must be gentle and patient, not forced or rushed.

What follows is a progressive simplification of thought. As the practitioner continues, the mind is trained to let go of even subtle distractions, focusing solely on the self. This state is not about blankness or void, but a sustained, positive inwardness where attention is undivided. The verse firmly rejects nihilism or the idea of seeking emptiness for its own sake; instead, it espouses a conscious and aware stillness, rooted in the reality of the self.

The gradual approach championed in this verse recognizes the natural restlessness of the mind. Trying to subdue all mental turbulence at once would be like expecting a wild horse to be instantly tamed. By taking one measured step after another, the mind becomes increasingly accustomed to calmness and self-focus. Setbacks are expected, but with ongoing practice, each step builds upon the previous one, incrementally leading to mastery. This journey, though lengthy, is certain in its result if the practitioner maintains perseverance and faith in the process.

Krishna’s message is also deeply compassionate. He acknowledges that the mind is not easily controlled, and offers reassurance that the process is inherently slow. The insistence on “step by step” progress helps to dispel discouragement and impatience, which often arise when immediate results are not seen. Like a farmer who nurtures a seed with water and sunlight, the yogi is advised to care for their practice with sustained effort and a gentle hand, trusting that inner transformation will blossom in time.

This practice of withdrawal and focused attention is not about renunciation of the world in a physical sense, but about learning where to direct one’s energy and attention. By gradually reducing attachment to sense objects and external distractions, the practitioner’s mind becomes more stable, resilient, and peaceful. Each cycle of effort and inner withdrawal brings increasing clarity, helping the yogi transform the nature of their mind from restless to serene.

Ultimately, Bhagavad Gita 6.25 provides a realistic, encouraging guide to meditation and self-mastery. The repeated emphasis on gradual progress, the need for intelligence and conviction, and the process of gently withdrawing from distractions all remind us that lasting transformation is not achieved in haste. Instead, it arises from steady, patient, and focused effort—one conscious moment at a time. As one continues on this journey, the mind eventually settles in the self, undisturbed by the world, achieving the peace and stability that is the hallmark of true meditation.