Wait – In Gita Verse 3.43 Thus knowing oneself to be transcendental to the material senses, mind and intelligence, O mighty-armed Arjuna, one should steady the mind by deliberate spiritual intelligence and thus – by spiritual strength – conquer this insatiable enemy known as lust.
In Bhagavad Gita Verse 3.43, Krishna says, “O Kaunteya, O Arjuna, the person who controls himself like this attains the soul, going beyond invincible desire.” This profound teaching highlights the importance of mastering one’s desires and emotions to achieve spiritual enlightenment. By transcending the often overpowering urges and desires, an individual can connect with their true self, or soul. This verse encapsulates the essence of inner discipline as a pathway to spiritual growth, urging individuals to rise above worldly temptations and focus on their higher purpose.
Krishna further explains that the mind should be controlled with the intellect, and ultimately, the intellect should be surrendered to the divine will of God. This layered approach to self-mastery highlights the importance of spiritual discipline and the need to transcend the limitations imposed by material desires. The verse emphasises the significance of aligning one’s actions with higher spiritual principles.
The essence of this teaching lies in the recognition of the self as a divine entity, a part of God. The soul’s innate longing for divine bliss cannot be fulfilled by material objects, which are inherently transient and incapable of satisfying the soul’s deeper desires. The intellect must be trained to think along these lines, using its strength to control the mind and, consequently, the senses. This process of control and surrender is essential for overcoming the powerful force of lust, which often leads individuals astray in their pursuit of worldly pleasures.
Krishna imparts a crucial lesson: when one’s inner energy reaches the third eye, a state of balance is achieved. This balance transcends the compartmentalisation of life, allowing individuals to experience life holistically. The body, when guided by inner senses, acts not as a doer driven by desires or goals, but as a vessel responding to the present moment with spiritual awareness. This profound shift enables individuals to engage with life without being tethered to the outcomes, desires, or ambitions that often cloud judgment and lead to inner turmoil.
Krishna’s guidance to Arjuna to act from his inner senses is an invitation to all individuals to live with heightened self-awareness. By responding to the present moment without the interference of judgments and interpretations, one can transcend the limitations imposed by outer senses. This approach fosters a life free from the constraints of desire and goal-oriented actions, allowing for a more authentic and fulfilling existence.
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the practice of silent waiting, as emphasised by Krishna, becomes a crucial lesson. The outer world often drives individuals towards aggression and competition, fuelled by the pursuit of material possessions. However, the inner world operates on a different plane, where desire becomes an obstacle rather than a catalyst for growth. In this delicate realm, a gentle approach akin to waiting patiently for a guest is required. Silent waiting opens the doors to one’s innermost consciousness, facilitating a profound connection with the divine.
Krishna’s teachings underscore the importance of using every situation as an opportunity for growth and spiritual awakening. By tapping into the intangible energy within, individuals can transcend their desires, goals, and lust, allowing their consciousness to expand and flourish. This transcendence marks a journey towards desirelessness, where actions are guided by divine will rather than personal ambition.
To recognise the divine nature within and to harness this understanding to overcome the powerful force of lust. By controlling the senses with the mind, the mind with the intellect, and the intellect with divine guidance, individuals can transcend the limitations of the material world. This path leads to the true bliss of the soul, requiring patience, self-awareness, and a willingness to surrender to the divine.
Krishna’s teachings offer a roadmap to a life of fulfilment and spiritual enlightenment. By embracing the principles of inner balance and responding to the present moment with spiritual senses, individuals can navigate life’s challenges with grace and equanimity. This journey towards self-realisation is not merely a destination but a continuous process of growth, leading to a deeper understanding of one’s true nature and a harmonious existence with the universe.
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