6.7 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 6, Verse 7

Bhagavad Gita 6.7 presents a profound portrait of the self-mastered individual, describing the state of one who has successfully conquered their mind. Krishna uses the term "jitātmanaḥ" (self-controlled) to describe this elevated spiritual state, where the practitioner has achieved inner dominance over mental fluctuations.

In this verse, Krishna reveals that when one conquers the mind, they attain a deep state of tranquility (praśāntasya). This isn't merely an absence of agitation but a profound peace that permeates one's entire being. In this serene state, the practitioner becomes closely connected to the Paramātmā or Supreme Self. This marks the first explicit mention of "Paramātmā" in the Gita, introducing an important concept that Krishna will elaborate on in later chapters.

The verse illustrates how the uncontrolled mind constantly pulls the soul toward material distractions and desires. However, when brought under control through yogic practice, this outward pull diminishes, allowing the soul to turn inward toward the divine presence within. This inward orientation represents a pivotal shift in consciousness, where the once-restless mind becomes a doorway to spiritual realization rather than an obstacle.

Krishna emphasizes that such a self-controlled person transcends the dualities of material existence. They remain unaffected by opposing physical sensations like heat and cold (śītoṣṇa), contrasting mental states such as happiness and distress (sukha-duḥkha), and the ego-based experiences of honor and dishonor (mānāpamāna). These pairs of opposites, which typically cause agitation in the ordinary mind, no longer disturb the equilibrium of one who has mastered themselves.

Imagine someone receiving high praise one day and harsh criticism the next. For most people, these experiences would trigger significant emotional reactions—elation followed by dejection. But the self-controlled person described in this verse maintains their equanimity through both situations, understanding the transient nature of worldly judgments. Their peace comes not from external validation but from their unwavering connection to the divine within.

This state of equipoise doesn't mean the self-realized person becomes numb or indifferent to life's experiences. Rather, they remain fully present and engaged, but without attachment to outcomes or reactions to circumstances. They experience life's full spectrum but are not tossed about by its changing tides. This steadiness of mind represents true freedom—the ability to remain centered regardless of external conditions.

The verse ultimately describes what yogis call "samādhi"—a state of complete absorption in the divine. When the mind is conquered and peace is established, one naturally aligns with the Supreme. In this state, the practitioner experiences a profound unity with the divine presence within, transcending the limitations of the ego-self and experiencing the boundless nature of consciousness. This is the ultimate goal of yoga: not merely physical flexibility or mental calm, but complete spiritual integration and the transcendence of all material dualities.