Bhagavad Gita Chapter 15, Verse 7

English Translation

It is verily a part of Mine which, becoming the eternal individual soul in the region of living beings, draws (to itself) the organs which have the mind as their sixth, and which abide in Nature.

Detailed Commentary

*Mamaivāmśo jīvaloke jīvabhūtaḥ sanātanaḥ* — The *Ātmā* is an *aṁśa* (part, fragment) of the *Paramātmā*, but when it identifies itself with the body, senses, mind, etc., it is called a *jīva*. This state of being a *jīva* is not real; it is like an act in a play. The Lord has stated that this universe is sustained by His *parā prakṛti* (7.5). However, the *jīva* has mistakenly assumed a connection with *aparā prakṛti*, which is not actually true. The Lord considers the *jīva* as His own — *mamaivāmśaḥ*. This understanding is real and beneficial. Here, the Lord explains that the *jīva* is merely His *aṁśa*; there is no part of *prakṛti* in it. Just as a lion's cub, even if it lives among sheep, does not become a sheep, similarly, the *jīva* should recognize its true identity. The easiest means to attain Bhagavān is the transformation of *ahaṁtā* (I-ness) and *mamaṭā* (mine-ness). The seeker should believe, "I belong to Bhagavān, and Bhagavān belongs to me." This truth eradicates the bonds of birth and death. Considering worldly objects as one's own is a mistake; they are merely like entrusted possessions. The *Ātmā*, which is truly an *aṁśa* of Bhagavān, becomes bound in the body and senses. It is not difficult for the *aṁśa* to attain the *aṁśī* (the Whole). Difficulty arises when the *aṁśa* considers itself separate from the *Paramātmā*. Eradicating this illusion and embracing Bhagavān is the true *puruṣārtha*. The more importance we give to perishable things, the lower we fall. Only by attaining the *Paramātmā* do we truly become great. A person becomes great by becoming a servant of Bhagavān for others, not by resources. Bhagavān explicitly states that He is subservient to His devotees. Finding Him in one's own place elevates one. The *jīva* errs by considering a part of the world as its own, whereas it should embrace its identity as an *aṁśa* of Bhagavān. One should remain joyful, understanding Bhagavān's grace in all circumstances. One should dedicate oneself to Bhagavān, establishing a relationship with Him. This is moving towards reality. Practicing *dharma* is more meaningful than striving to attain perishable things. To be solely Bhagavān's, this is liberation. Therefore, the seeker should remain surrendered to Bhagavān; this is the greatest *puruṣārtha*.