चञ्चलं हि मन: कृष्ण प्रमाथि बलवद्दृढम् | तस्याहं निग्रहं मन्ये वायोरिव सुदुष्करम् || 34 || |
|---|
“O Krishna, the mind is certainly restless, turbulent, strong and stubborn. I consider it as difficult to control as the wind.”
Commentary: Arjuna expresses his difficulty in controlling the mind. He compares the mind to the wind, which is difficult to control and constantly changing direction. Like the wind, the mind is restless, constantly seeking new experiences and sensations.
Mind is also strong and stubborn, making it a challenge to discipline and control. Consider a person who has a habit of eating unhealthy junk food, and he knows that it’s not good for his health. He decides to change his diet and eat healthier, but as soon as he smells the aroma of fried food or sees a bag of chips, his mind starts to crave for the food. Even though he knows it’s not good for him, his mind acts so strong and stubborn that it keeps tempting him to go back to his old ways, making it difficult for him to stick to his new diet. The mind develops strong diehard patterns of habits, likes and dislikes over a period of time. Arjuna acknowledges that taming the mind is no easy task, but he seeks guidance from Lord Krishna on how to do so. This verse highlights the importance of mental discipline and self-control, which are essential for attaining spiritual growth and inner peace.