Bharatpedia

Atma-Samyama Yoga


The Atma-Samyam Yog (Sanskrit: आत्म- संयम योग, romanized: Ātŭm- Saṁyam Yōg) also spelled as Atma Sanyam Yog is the sixth of the eighteen chapters of the Bhagavad Gita.[1] The chapter has a total of 47 shlokas. The chapter is the 28th chapter of Bhishma Parva, the sixth episode of the Mahabharata.[2]

Atma Samyam Yog
Krishna and Arjun on the chariot, Mahabharata, 18th-19th century, India.jpg
Arjuna and Krishna on chariot, a 18th century description of setting of Bhagvad Gita
Information
ReligionHinduism
AuthorTraditionally attributed to Vyasa
LanguageSanskrit
Verses47

EtymologyEdit

The term Atma Samyam Yoga seems to be a combination of two Sanskrit words— Atma refers to the individual soul or self. Samyam means self-discipline or self-control, So, Atma Samyam Yoga could be understood as the practice of self-discipline or self-control to achieve a deeper connection with one's inner self or soul.[3][4]

OverviewEdit

1-5: In these shlokas, Arjuna questions Krishna about the apparent contradiction between those who restrain their senses and those who indulge them. Krishna explains that self-control is superior, and by mastering the mind, senses, and desires, one attains tranquility.

6-9: Here, Krishna discusses the importance of self-discipline. He advises Arjuna to sit in a clean place, hold his body steady, and focus his gaze on a single point. This practice of meditation is said to help control the mind.

10-16: Krishna explains the concept of equanimity. He advises Arjuna to treat pleasure and pain, success and failure, as the same. This detachment is essential for a peaceful and content life.

17-23: In these shlokas, Krishna describes the ideal meditative mindset. He suggests that a yogi should be secluded, eat in moderation, practice moderation in all activities, and engage in a balanced lifestyle.

24-29: Krishna describes the elevated yogi, one who has mastered the art of meditation and self-control. Such a person sees the entire universe within themselves and themselves within the universe.

30-32: Krishna explains the concept of unity, how the wise person sees the same divine presence in all beings and all beings in the divine presence. This vision dispels feelings of separateness and fosters unity.

33-36: Krishna emphasizes self-realization. He encourages Arjuna to rise above doubts, control the mind, and attain self-mastery. Through self-discipline and self-awareness, one can attain inner peace.

37-47: In the concluding shlokas, Krishna emphasizes the supremacy of self-realization. He urges Arjuna to rise above material desires, practice meditation, and surrender to the divine. By doing so, one can attain true union with the self.[5]

ContentEdit

Atma Samyam Yog, also known as the Yoga of Self-Control, is a significant concept discussed in the Bhagavad Gita, a revered ancient Indian scripture. This dialogue takes place between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.[6] Atma Samyam Yog revolves around the idea of mastering oneself through self-discipline and control. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna that true strength and liberation come from controlling one's desires, emotions, and senses. He emphasizes that inner peace is achieved by reigning in the mind's wanderings and aligning it with the higher self. Krishna explains that the human mind is prone to distraction and restlessness, which can lead to suffering. By practicing self-control, one can detach from the material world, find balance, and ultimately attain self-realization. Krishna urges Arjuna to focus on the true purpose of life, transcending physical and material desires. This path of self-mastery requires dedication, practice, and detachment from the outcomes of one's actions. Krishna highlights the importance of performing duties without attachment to success or failure. By doing so, individuals can overcome the fluctuations of the mind and attain a state of equanimity. In essence, Atma Samyam Yog teaches that true freedom comes from controlling the mind's impulses, connecting with one's higher self, and realizing the impermanence of the material world. This wisdom shared between Krishna and Arjuna serves as a guide for individuals seeking inner harmony, spiritual growth, and a meaningful existence amidst life's challenges.[7][8]

ThemesEdit

  • Self-Discipline and Control: The chapter emphasizes the practice of self-discipline in controlling one's actions, thoughts, and desires. It discusses the importance of moderation and avoiding extremes in behavior.[9]
  • Meditation and Inner Peace: The concept of meditation (dhyana) is highlighted as a means to achieve inner peace and self-realization. The chapter teaches how to meditate with a focused mind and a tranquil heart.[10]
  • Detachment and Renunciation: The theme of detachment from material desires and possessions is central. Detachment is presented as a way to free oneself from worldly attachments and attain spiritual progress.
  • Equanimity in Success and Failure: The concept of maintaining equanimity in both success and failure is discussed. The chapter teaches how to remain balanced regardless of the outcomes of actions.
  • Control of Senses and Desires: The importance of controlling the senses and desires is emphasized for leading a disciplined and focused life. It advises not to let desires dictate one's actions and decisions.[11]
  • Yoga as a Path to Liberation: The chapter introduces the concept of yoga as a means to attain liberation (moksha). It explains that by practicing self-discipline and meditation, one can achieve self-realization and ultimately unite with the divine.[12]
  • Steadfastness and Perseverance: The chapter encourages steadfastness in practicing meditation and self-discipline. It highlights the significance of perseverance on the spiritual path.[13]
  • Importance of Solitude: The value of solitude and seclusion for focused meditation is emphasized. The chapter suggests that withdrawing from distractions can aid in achieving inner stillness.[14]
  • Balancing Material and Spiritual Life: The chapter provides guidance on balancing material responsibilities with spiritual pursuits. It suggests that a disciplined approach can help individuals manage both aspects effectively.[15][16]

These themes collectively form the essence of Bhagvad Gita, conveying the teachings of self-mastery, inner tranquility, and spiritual growth through self-discipline and meditation.

SignificanceEdit

The Atma Samyam Yog in the Bhagavad Gita refers to the discipline of self-control or self-regulation. It's a practice of mastering one's senses, desires, and emotions to achieve inner balance and focus. This form of yoga is significant because it helps individuals develop greater control over their actions, leading to a more peaceful and harmonious life. It's a part of the broader teachings of the Gita that guide individuals towards self-realization and spiritual growth.[17]

LegacyEdit

The concept of Atma Samyam, or self-control, is a fundamental teaching in the Bhagavad Gita. It emphasizes the importance of controlling one's mind, desires, and senses in order to achieve spiritual growth and self-realization. The Gita teaches that by practicing self-discipline and restraint, individuals can attain inner peace, clarity of thought, and a stronger connection with their higher selves. This concept has left a lasting legacy, inspiring people to seek balance and mastery over their inner struggles, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.[18]

See alsoEdit

ReferencesEdit

  1. ↑ Sharma, Amiya Bhushan. Aristotle, Plato and Bhagvad Gita on the "Soul" In the Light Primarily of On the Soul, Phaedo and the Second Chapter of Bhagvad Gita. OCLC 1188954697.
  2. ↑ "SHOCKING NEWS:", Mahabharata Book Six (Volume 1), NYU Press, pp. 105–170, retrieved 2023-08-23
  3. ↑ "Atma-Samyama Yoga". Sringeri Vidya Bharati Foundation Inc., USA. 2013-10-30. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  4. ↑ "Atma-Samyama Yoga – The Divine Life Society". Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  5. ↑ "Bhagavad Gita – Chapter 6 Summary". Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  6. ↑ "Conversation between Krishna and today's Arjuna". www.linkedin.com. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  7. ↑ Charan, Chaitanya (2016-12-19). "Use self-control to commit the self to the control of the supreme self - Chaitanya Charan Das, Bhagavad Gita ISKCON". Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  8. ↑ mahendrajani (2017-10-12). "The Essence of Bhagavad Gita – Chapter 6: The Path of Self-Control". mahendrajani. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  9. ↑ Karthik, Mirle. "Self discipline is the foundation of social order". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  10. ↑ "The Bhagavad Gita | The Practice of Meditation". The Contemplative Life. 2017-03-18. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  11. ↑ Doane, Mary Ann (1987), "The Desire to Desire", The Desire to Desire, London: Palgrave Macmillan UK, pp. 1–37, ISBN 978-0-333-45535-7, retrieved 2023-08-23
  12. ↑ "moksha, n.", Oxford English Dictionary, Oxford University Press, 2023-03-02, retrieved 2023-08-23
  13. ↑ "The description of a Person who possess Steadfast Wisdom…". www.speakingtree.in. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  14. ↑ Prabhu, Mahesh. "The Power of Isolation: How Solitude Can Strengthen Your Mind and Consciousness". www.linkedin.com. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  15. ↑ "Spirituality learnings for humans- Bhagavad Gita". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  16. ↑ Charan, Chaitanya (2018-02-26). "What we need to give up is not material life but the materialistic conception of life - Chaitanya Charan Das, Bhagavad Gita ISKCON". Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  17. ↑ Newlyn, Emma (2016-03-03). "The Bhagavad Gita and the battle of everyday life". Ekhart Yoga. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
  18. ↑ "The Legacy of Yoga in Bhagawad Geeta | Exotic India Art". www.exoticindiaart.com. Retrieved 2023-08-23.
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