6.47 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 6, Verse 47

In Bhagavad Gita 6.47, Lord Krishna reveals the pinnacle of yoga practice, concluding an important section on different yogic paths. After describing various types of yogis in preceding verses, Krishna now declares who among them stands highest in spiritual achievement.

The verse states that among all yogis, the one who worships Krishna with unwavering faith, whose mind is fixed on Him, and who renders transcendental loving service to Him is considered the most integrated or connected (yukta-tama). This declaration is significant as it establishes bhakti-yoga (the yoga of devotion) as the supreme yogic path, surpassing other forms like karma-yoga, jnana-yoga, and ashtanga-yoga that Krishna had previously discussed.

Krishna's use of the term "yukta-tama" is particularly meaningful here. While earlier verses used the term "yukta" (connected), this verse employs "yukta-tama" (best connected), indicating that while disconnection from material entanglements is good, direct connection with the Supreme through devotion is the highest achievement. This subtle shift emphasizes that spiritual progress isn't merely about what one renounces but rather what one embraces—specifically, a loving relationship with the Divine.

The verse represents a progression in spiritual understanding. Krishna guides us to see that while meditation, austerities, and philosophical knowledge are valuable, they ultimately lead to bhakti—loving devotion to God. It's by great fortune that one comes to Krishna consciousness on this path of bhakti-yoga, as it represents the fulfillment of Vedic direction.

In grammatical terms, scholars note that the word "yoginam" (of yogis) in the Sanskrit is actually meant to be understood in the ablative case rather than the genitive, signifying that this type of yogi stands apart from the four types mentioned in previous verses. This grammatical distinction further underscores the supreme position Krishna assigns to the devotional yogi.

The essence of this verse lies in its emphasis on faith, remembrance, and loving service. These three elements—having complete faith in Krishna, constantly thinking of Him within oneself, and rendering loving devotional service—form the foundation of the highest yoga practice. It's not merely about physical postures, breath control, or even meditation techniques, but about developing a loving relationship with the Supreme.

This verse beautifully concludes Chapter 6 by establishing that while various yogic paths have their place in spiritual development, the path of loving devotion represents the ultimate flowering of all spiritual practices. In doing so, Krishna prepares Arjuna—and all readers of the Gita—for the deeper teachings on bhakti that will unfold in subsequent chapters, where the personal, loving relationship between the devotee and the Divine becomes increasingly central.