Chapter 6 Verse 19
Dhyān Yog
यथा दीपो निवातस्थो नेङ्गते सोपमा स्मृता। योगिनो यतचित्तस्य युञ्जतो योगमात्मनः।।6.19।।
yathā dīpo nivāta-stho neṅgate sopamā smṛitā yogino yata-chittasya yuñjato yogam ātmanaḥ
Word Meanings
| yathā | as |
| dīpaḥ | a lamp |
| nivāta-sthaḥ | in a windless place |
| na | does not |
| iṅgate | flickers |
| sā | this |
| upamā | analogy |
| smṛitā | is considered |
| yoginaḥ | of a yogi |
| yata-chittasya | whose mind is disciplined |
| yuñjataḥ | steadily practicing |
| yogam | in meditation |
| ātmanaḥ | on the Supreme |
Translation
As a lamp placed in a windless spot does not flicker, so is the Yogi of a controlled mind, who practices Yoga in the Self, compared.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse uses the image of a lamp in a place without wind to show what a steady mind looks like. Just as the lamp's flame stays calm when there is no breeze, a mind trained by regular practice stays calm and does not get disturbed by outside events.
This steadiness comes from steady effort — calming the mind through meditation, self-awareness, and right action. When the mind rests in the Self, it sees clearly and does not swing with praise, blame, desire, or fear.
A steady mind brings wise action and inner peace. It allows you to respond instead of react, to choose compassion over anger, and to keep working toward your goals without being thrown off by small disturbances.
Life Application
- Set aside a short, regular time each day for breathing or quiet sitting to build inner calm.
- Create simple "windless" moments: turn off notifications, take a walk without your phone, or pause for three deep breaths before reacting.
- Notice thoughts without following them; let them pass like clouds while you keep your attention steady.
Reflection Question
When do I notice my mind flickering most, and what one small habit could steady it?