
18
CHAPTER
VERSE
33
धृत्या यया धारयते मन:प्राणेन्द्रियक्रिया: |
योगेनाव्यभिचारिण्या धृति: सा पार्थ सात्त्विकी || 18.33 ||
Dhṛtyā yayā dhārayate manaḥ-prāṇendriyakriyāḥ |
Yogenāvyabhichāriṇyā dhṛtiḥ sā pārtha sāttvikī ||
The determination by which one holds fast to one's duty, piety, and yogic practices without wavering, O Arjuna, that determination is said to be of the nature of goodness.
Lesson:
Krishna illuminates the nature of determination (dhriti) and its classification based on the qualities of sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance). Krishna explains to Arjuna that the determination characterized by unwavering adherence to duty, righteousness, and yogic practices is considered to be of the nature of goodness (sattva). Dhriti, or steadfastness, refers to the resolute commitment to one's responsibilities and moral principles despite challenges or obstacles. It involves holding fast to one's convictions and values, remaining steadfast in the pursuit of righteousness and spiritual progress.
The verse highlights the quality of avyabhicharini yoga, which denotes unwavering commitment to yogic practices. Yoga, in this context, refers to the path of spiritual discipline and self-realization. Avyabhicharini yoga implies dedicated and consistent engagement in yoga practices such as meditation, self-discipline, and selfless service, without wavering or inconsistency.
Krishna addresses Arjuna, urging him to cultivate determination characterized by sattva guna, the quality of goodness. Such determination is rooted in clarity of purpose, righteous conduct, and unwavering commitment to spiritual growth. It enables individuals to overcome inner conflicts and external distractions, staying focused on their spiritual goals.
Furthermore, Krishna's teachings in this verse underscore the importance of cultivating sattvic qualities for spiritual evolution. Sattva guna fosters inner purity, clarity of mind, and harmony with the divine will. Determination characterized by sattva guna empowers individuals to transcend the influence of ego and desires, leading to inner peace and spiritual liberation.
In essence, this verse from the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the role of determination in spiritual life and its association with the quality of sattva, or goodness. It encourages seekers to cultivate unwavering commitment to duty, righteousness, and yogic practices, fostering spiritual growth and inner transformation. Through steadfast determination rooted in sattva guna, individuals can overcome obstacles on the path of self-realization and attain ultimate liberation from the cycle of birth and death.