Chapter 2: The Yoga of Knowledge
Verse 2:69

Meaning

Supreme God Krishna spoke

What appears as night to all beings is the time of awakening for those with self-mastery, and what is the time of awakening for all beings is seen as night by the spiritually awakened. (2:69)

Commentary

The first line of this verse may inspire some Yogis to stay awake all night for spiritual practices like meditation or chanting. However, this practice may not align with verse 6:17, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining a proper diet, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Prolonged periods of wakefulness have been linked to memory loss, adverse effects on physical and mental health, and even premature death. Many renowned Yogis are known to have died relatively young, whereas God desires longevity for all of us (17:8). Indeed, Yogis may rise during the Brāhma muhurta (early morning) which is "night" for most others, when there is complete tranquility to meditate or engage in other practices to connect with the Divine. Following the natural circadian rhythm, they should retire early and rise early. This approach will allow them to continue their spiritual practices mindfully without experiencing discomfort or fatigue during the day. Discomfort induced by inadequate sleep is not conducive to peace and a general feeling of well-being. One must aim for at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep every day. For instance, if one retires at 7 pm, they can easily wake up at 2 am, and if one sleeps at 8 pm, they can rise at 3 am comfortably. It's crucial to remember the verse of the Sacred Book which emphasizes that torturing the body through extreme austerity or tapas also tortures the Divine stationed within the body. (17:6,19)

The second line of the verse carries a figurative meaning. During the daytime, the majority of people are engrossed in their daily routines, whether at work or with family, and forget about God, remaining in spiritual slumber. Figuratively, the daytime represents a nocturnal time for them spiritually. In contrast, the Yogi or true spiritual aspirant remains awake during this period to their inner Self, mindful of God-consciousness even amidst all the work they perform. A Karma Yogi, still engaged in worldly affairs, offers all their actions to God, thus maintaining a constant remembrance of Him. With each step they take, each moment they bathe, and every endeavor they undertake, they dedicate it to the Divine, drawing inspiration from verses in the Holy Book, such as verse 9:27 or 12:10. Even before engaging in intimate moments of love and union, they sanctify the act, imbuing it with divine significance, much like all other aspects of their life:

Whatever you do, whatever you eat, whatever you offer as an oblation, whatever you give in charity, and whichever austerities you practice—dedicate them all as offerings to Me. (9:27)

If you are not inclined to practice concentration through Yogic techniques, then learn the art of working for Me. By working for Me, you will attain success in reaching Me even while remaining engaged in activities. (12:10)

Sanskrit

श्रीभगवान् उवाच

या निशा सर्वभूतानां तस्यां जागर्ति संयमी ।

यस्यां जाग्रति भूतानि सा निशा पश्यतो मुनेः ॥ 2:69 ॥

Word Separation

या निशा सर्व-भूतानाम्, तस्याम् जागर्ति संयमी;

यस्याम् जाग्रति भूतानि, सा निशा पश्यतः मुनेः।

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