Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 44

English Translation

For, by that very past practice, he is carried forward even in spite of himself! Even a seeker of Yoga transcends the result of the performance of Vedic rituals!

Detailed Commentary

।।6.44।। Commentary—Due to previous practice, the mind of a Yogi is naturally drawn towards Bhagavan. One born into a family of Yogis receives such facilities and an atmosphere not found in ordinary homes. Even after experiencing enjoyments (bhogas) in Svarga and other realms, that individual is attracted towards Paramatma. This is because bhogas are temporary, whereas the impressions (sanskāras) of Yoga are permanent. For this reason, the Yogabhrashta (one fallen from Yoga) is drawn towards Paramatma. The word 'Jijñāsu' means that an individual who has not yet engaged in Yoga, but has the desire to understand Yoga, also rises above the karmakāṇḍas (ritualistic actions) of the Vedas. A person who gives importance to Yoga gives less importance to enjoyment (bhoga) and accumulation (saṅgraha). Even if one has not become completely Yogārūḍha (established in Yoga), but has curiosity (jijñāsa) towards Yoga, the effect of this is that such a person also rises above material pleasures. Even by having the desire for Yoga, an individual does not fall. Special Point: (1) 'Yogabhrashta' describes the state of a special individual. One who has striven for siddhi (perfection) in Yoga, and even if they could not fully achieve it, their glory is still greater. Their interest lies towards the higher path of truth, therefore they continue to be freed from the allure of Māyā. (2) Even if a sādhaka (aspirant) cannot immediately achieve 'samatā' (equanimity), their direction and goal should remain the same. As Tulsidas-ji says, our aim should be great. Bhagavan sees what the sādhaka's goal is, not what they are doing. A saint said, 'We may not be able to see Bhagavan, but Bhagavan sees us.' This is enough for us. Similarly, our goal should remain samatā. By this, our purpose will certainly be fulfilled. Connection — After being born in the home of the prosperous, when the Yogabhrashta is drawn towards Paramatma, what is their state? This is explained in the following verse.