Three definitions of Yoga in Bhagavad Gita

Introduction:

What is Yoga?

It is very common to suggest Maharshi Patanjali’s definition as THE definition of Yoga (i.e., from his Yoga Sutra - “Yoga is cessation of mental fluctuations”)

However, much before Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, the most ancient use of word “Yoga” is found in hymn 5.81.1 of the Rigveda (i.e., to indicate “yoke” or “control”)

In Vedanta, the most interesting definition is given by Lord Krishna (i.e., in Bhagavad Gita)

Vedic Tribe is happy to introduce three definitions of Yoga given by Lord Krishna in Bhagavad Gita.

In the next post, we will be sharing the first definition i.e., equanimity of mind.

We are sure that this introductory series will create enough curiosity in you to enable you to study Bhagavad Gita and adopt its teachings.

Madhwesh K

Vedic Tribe

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Yoga is equanimity of mind

In verse 48 of Chpater 2 (Bhagavad Gita), Lord Krishna says "Be equal minded in both success and

failure. Such equanimity is called Yoga"

Every moment of life offers success or failure in different degrees. Our mind keeps swaying between

the two, every such moment. Equanimity of mind is almost impossible without mental conviction.

Equanimity of mind is possible via three mental convictions: (1) my experience now is the result of

my actions in the past; (2) nothing is permanent including success or failure; and (3) all these are just

a tiny bit in the grand scheme of the cosmic consciousness

If these mental convictions are observed at every stage of life, then the observer becomes a Yogi.

Hence, “yoga” need not only be construed as posture or meditation, but it has a higher indication of

equanimity of mind.

In the next post, we will discuss yoga as “skill in action”

Madhwesh K

Vedic Tribe

— 

Yoga is skill in action

In verse 50 of Chpater 2 (Bhagavad Gita), Lord Krishna says "Yoga is skill in action"

We often think that Jnana-marga (path of knowledge) and Karma-marga (path of action) are

incompatible. I.e., if we tread the path of knowledge, worldly affairs seems overwhelming and

if we tread the path of involvement in worldly affairs, acquisition of knowledge seems overwhelming.

However, the one who performs his / her actions skillfully in everyday life, becomes a Yogi and

such a yogi treads both paths effortlessly.

Skillful action is possible via three mental convictions shared earlier: (1) my experience now is

the result of my actions in the past; (2) nothing is permanent including success or failure; and

(3) all these are just a tiny bit in the grand scheme of the cosmic consciousness

Hence, “yoga” need not only be construed as posture or meditation, but it has a higher indication

of skillful action.

In the next post, we will discuss yoga as “separation from contact with suffering”

Madhwesh K

Vedic Tribe

— 

Yoga is detachment from suffering

In verse 23 of Chpater 6 (Bhagavad Gita), Lord Krishna says "Know that which is called yoga

to be separation from contact with suffering"

Suffering is of two kinds: Adhi & Vyadhi (mental & physical).

Physical suffering is easy to manage. It can be minimized with sattvik food, vyayama / exercise,

asana / postures, medication, physical care…etc. 

On the other hand, mental suffering is difficult to manage. Because, it is our own memory

& imagination - which are manifesting as suffering.

However, an optimum mental state can completely detach a yogi from mental suffering.

With advancement in such a mental state, yogi even detaches from physical suffering. 

This optimum mental state is possible via three mental convictions shared earlier:

(1) my experience now is the result of my actions in the past; (2) nothing is permanent including

success or failure; and (3) all these are just a tiny bit in the grand scheme of the cosmic consciousness

Hence, “yoga” need not only be construed as posture or meditation, but it has a higher indication

of detachment from suffering.

Vedic Tribe is happy to have shared three definitions of Yoga according to Bhagavad Gita.

These were only introductory write-ups and we encourage you to read Bhagavad Gita and

adopt its teachings.

All the best

Madhwesh K

Vedic Tribe