Chapter 18 Verse 33
Mokṣha Sanyās Yog
धृत्या यया धारयते मनःप्राणेन्द्रियक्रियाः।योगेनाव्यभिचारिण्या धृतिः सा पार्थ सात्त्विकी।।18.33।।
dhṛityā yayā dhārayate manaḥ-prāṇendriya-kriyāḥ yogenāvyabhichāriṇyā dhṛitiḥ sā pārtha sāttvikī
Word Meanings
| dhṛityā | by determining |
| yayā | which |
| dhārayate | sustains |
| manaḥ | of the mind |
| prāṇa | life-airs |
| indriya | senses |
| kriyāḥ | activities |
| yogena | through Yog |
| avyabhichāriṇyā | with steadfastness |
| dhṛitiḥ | determination |
| sā | that |
| pārtha | Arjun, the son of Pritha |
| sāttvikī | in the mode of goodness |
Translation
The unwavering firmness, through which Yoga restrains the functions of the mind, life-force, and senses—that firmness, O Arjuna, is Sattvic (pure).
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse says true firmness is the steady inner power that, by yoga, holds the mind, breath, and senses in balance. That steady control is sattvic — pure, calm, and clear — not harsh suppression.
Sattvic firmness comes from practice and clarity, so the mind does not wander and the senses do not pull you off course. It allows right action and inner freedom because your choices arise from calm awareness, not from impulse or fear.
Life Application
- Practice a simple daily breath or meditation habit to steady mind and life-energy; small regular practice builds steady firmness.
- Before reacting, pause and take a few steady breaths to stop the senses from driving your behavior.
- Prefer gentle discipline and clear intent over force; set small, consistent habits rather than strict rules you cannot keep.
Reflection Question
Where in my day do I most need steady calm, and what one small practice will help me hold it?