Chapter 2 Verse 68
Sānkhya Yog
तस्माद्यस्य महाबाहो निगृहीतानि सर्वशः। इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेभ्यस्तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता।।2.68।।
tasmād yasya mahā-bāho nigṛihītāni sarvaśhaḥ indriyāṇīndriyārthebhyas tasya prajñā pratiṣhṭhitā
Word Meanings
| tasmāt | therefore |
| yasya | whose |
| mahā-bāho | mighty-armed one |
| nigṛihītāni | restrained |
| sarvaśhaḥ | completely |
| indriyāṇi | senses |
| indriya-arthebhyaḥ | from sense objects |
| tasya | of that person |
| prajñā | transcendental knowledge |
| pratiṣhṭhitā | remains fixed |
Translation
Therefore, O mighty-armed Arjuna, his knowledge is steady whose senses are completely restrained from sense objects.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse says true wisdom stays firm when the senses are held back from chasing their objects. When the eyes, ears, tongue, nose, and skin are not constantly pulled toward pleasure or reaction, the mind becomes steady.
Restraint here is not harsh punishment but calm control. With controlled senses, judgment is clear and knowledge does not waver in stress or temptation.
A steady mind acts wisely rather than reacting from habit or desire. That inner steadiness is the ground for right action and lasting peace.
Life Application
- Notice one strong impulse (phone, snack, anger) and pause for a few breaths before responding.
- Create short daily limits: no phone for the first 30 minutes after waking or one screen-free meal each day.
- Practice single-tasking—focus on one activity fully to reduce constant sensory switching.
Reflection Question
Which sense pulls me most often, and what one small step can I take today to steady it?