Chapter 6, Verse 12 (Bhagavad Gita 6.12)
Chapter 6: Dhyān Yog – Path of Meditation
Sanskrit Shloka
तत्रैकाग्रं मनः कृत्वा यतचित्तेन्द्रियक्रियः। उपविश्यासने युञ्ज्याद्योगमात्मविशुद्धये
Transliteration
tatraikāgraṁ manaḥ kṛitvā yata-chittendriya-kriyaḥ upaviśhyāsane yuñjyād yogam ātma-viśhuddhaye
Word Meanings
tatra—there; eka-agram—one-pointed; manaḥ—mind; kṛitvā—having made; yata-chitta—controlling the mind; indriya—senses; kriyaḥ—activities; upaviśhya—being seated; āsane—on the seat; yuñjyāt yogam—should strive to practice yog; ātma viśhuddhaye—for purification of the mind;
Translation
Seated on that seat, making the mind one-pointed and controlling the activities of the mind and senses, one should practice Yoga for the purification of the self.
Meaning & Commentary
This verse emphasizes that spiritual progress is not merely an external act but an inward alignment of consciousness. By narrowing the focus of the mind, the practitioner creates a vessel of stillness, effectively silencing the chaotic chatter of the senses that usually dissipates our inner energy. The process of purification mentioned here refers to the cleansing of deep-seated karmic impressions and desires that cloud our true nature. Through disciplined concentration, the practitioner bridges the gap between the mundane self and the transcendental Self. Ultimately, it teaches that true mastery begins with the regulation of one's inner faculty, leading to profound self-clarity.