Bhagavad Gita Chapter 8, Verse 27

English Translation

O son of Prtha, no yogi [One steadfast in meditation.) whosoever has known these two courses becomes deluded. Therefore, O Arjuna, be you steadfast in yoga at all times.

Detailed Commentary

Explanation of 8.27: 'Knowing these two paths, O Partha, no Yogi is ever deluded.' The bright path (Shuklamarga) is luminous, and the dark path (Krishnamarga) is full of darkness. Those whose inner consciousness is not attracted to mundane things, and whose goal is the knowledge-embodied Supreme Self (Jnanaswaroop Paramatma), are practitioners of the bright path (Shuklamargi sadhakas); that is, their path is luminous. Those who are engrossed in the world (samsara) and whose goal is to enjoy worldly pleasures, dwell in darkness. And those who perform auspicious deeds (shubh karma) like Yajna, Tapas, Dana, etc., with restraint, driven by the desire for enjoyment, and ascend to higher realms (Swargadi lokas), they too are ultimately caught in the cycle of birth and death (janma-marana ke chakkar). Those on the dark path, even after going to higher realms, are not freed from this cycle. They keep revolving in the cycles of birth and death. A person who understands the consequences of both the bright and dark paths becomes a Yogi, not a Bhogi (one who indulges in worldly pleasures), because he rises above material enjoyments (bhoga). Therefore, he is not deluded. One whose aim is to remain undisturbed (nirvikar), whether worldly pleasures are attained or not, is called a Yogi. 'Therefore, at all times, be steadfast in Yoga, Arjuna.' One who has resolved to attain the Supreme Self (Paramatma prapti) is not disturbed in any circumstance. His goal is unwavering (atal), and favorable or unfavorable circumstances do not affect him. In such a state, he naturally attains equanimity (swabhavik samata). Therefore, the Lord tells Arjuna, "Always remain steadfast in equanimity and practice Yoga." Connection: Now the Lord describes the glory of the Yogi.