Discipline — Lesson 11

Verses

Transliteration

yadā viniyataṁ cittam ātmany evāvatiṣṭhate
niḥspṛhaḥ sarva-kāmebhyo yukta ity ucyate tadā

yathā dīpo nivāta-stho neṅgate sopamā smṛtā
yogino yata-cittasya yuñjato yogam ātmanaḥ

Meaning

When the disciplined mind rests in the Self, free from cravings, one is said to be established in yoga. Like a flame in a windless place that does not flicker, the mind of a disciplined person remains steady.

Key Words

• viniyataṁ cittam — well-controlled mind
• niḥspṛhaḥ — free from craving
• yuktaḥ — integrated, disciplined
• dīpaḥ — lamp
• nivāta — without wind

Teaching

Krishna now shows the result of discipline. When the mind is trained, it becomes steady. Not restless, not pulled in different directions, but quiet and stable. The example is simple: A flame in a windless place. No disturbance, no flickering. This steadiness allows the mind to remain with clarity.

Connection to Discipline

Discipline leads to inner stillness. Without discipline, the mind keeps moving. With discipline, it becomes available for clarity and understanding. This verse shows the goal of sādhana — a steady and available mind.

Reflection

When does my mind feel most steady? What disturbs it the most? What helps it become like a steady flame?