Chapter 12 Verse 9
Bhakti Yog
अथ चित्तं समाधातुं न शक्नोषि मयि स्थिरम्।अभ्यासयोगेन ततो मामिच्छाप्तुं धनञ्जय।।12.9।।
atha chittaṁ samādhātuṁ na śhaknoṣhi mayi sthiram abhyāsa-yogena tato mām ichchhāptuṁ dhanañjaya
Word Meanings
| atha | if |
| chittam | mind |
| samādhātum | to fix |
| na śhaknoṣhi | (you) are unable |
| mayi | on me |
| sthiram | steadily |
| abhyāsa-yogena | by uniting with God through repeated practice |
| tataḥ | then |
| mām | me |
| ichchhā | desire |
| āptum | to attain |
| dhanañjaya | Arjun, the conqueror of wealth |
Translation
If you are unable to fix your mind steadily on Me, then seek to reach Me through the yoga of constant practice, O Arjuna.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
If you find it hard to keep your mind steadily focused on God, do not be discouraged. The verse says steady devotion often comes not from a single effort but from repeated, patient practice (abhyasa).
Abhyasa means returning again and again to the aim — through small, regular acts of remembrance, prayer, or meditation. Over time these repeated efforts calm the mind and make steady attention possible.
This is practical: spiritual steadiness is built like a habit. Little consistent steps, not perfect concentration, lead you closer to the Divine.
Life Application
- Pick one simple daily practice (short prayer, breathing with a sacred name, or a moment of gratitude) and do it at the same time each day.
- When your mind wanders, gently bring it back without self-blame; repeat this again and again.
- Use small reminders (alarms, notes, a ring, or a quiet corner) to help you return to practice throughout the day.
Reflection Question
What one small practice will I commit to today that I can repeat consistently to steady my mind?