Chapter 4 Verse 27
Jñāna Karm Sanyās Yog
सर्वाणीन्द्रियकर्माणि प्राणकर्माणि चापरे। आत्मसंयमयोगाग्नौ जुह्वति ज्ञानदीपिते।।4.27।।
sarvāṇīndriya-karmāṇi prāṇa-karmāṇi chāpare ātma-sanyama-yogāgnau juhvati jñāna-dīpite
Word Meanings
| sarvāṇi | all |
| indriya | the senses |
| karmāṇi | functions |
| prāṇa-karmāṇi | functions of the life breath |
| cha | and |
| apare | others |
| ātma-sanyama yogāgnau | in the fire of the controlled mind |
| juhvati | sacrifice |
| jñāna-dīpite | kindled by knowledge |
Translation
Others again sacrifice all the functions of the senses and those of the breath (vital energy, or Prana) in the fire of the Yoga of self-restraint, kindled by knowledge.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse shows an inner form of sacrifice: instead of outer rituals, a person offers the urges of the senses and the movements of the life-breath into the "fire" of self-control. That fire is steady attention and restraint, not harsh punishment.
"Kindled by knowledge" means this control rests on clear understanding — seeing what truly helps the soul. When wisdom lights the inner fire, senses and breath stop running the show and become tools for calm action and service.
In practice, this leads to less reactivity, clearer choices, and a steadier mind. The aim is to use energy and attention for what matters, not to be driven by every passing desire.
Life Application
- Before acting on a strong impulse, pause and take three slow breaths to bring awareness and choice.
- Spend 5 minutes daily watching the breath to strengthen inner steadiness; use this calm to meet small tasks mindfully.
- Turn one routine activity (washing dishes, walking, answering messages) into a simple offering by doing it with full attention and kind intent.
Reflection Question
When did I last let a strong urge decide my action, and what would change if I offered that moment to inner awareness instead?