Chapter 6: The Yoga of Meditation
Verse 6:36

Meaning

Supreme God Krishna spoke

It is hard to succeed in Yoga for a man who lacks self-control, but, in my judgment, it is attainable through self-mastery by a man who makes requisite efforts and adheres to the correct technique. (6:36)

Commentary

Indeed, certain Upanishads and the Mahābhārata suggest that a Yogi who has attained self-mastery and diligently and constantly applies themselves can successfully consummate Yoga in a span of six months. This is mentioned in texts such as the Maitrayaniya Upanishad (6:28) and the Anu-Gitā, found in the āshvamedhic Parva of the Mahābhārata (19:36). These scriptures highlight the potential for rapid progress in the Yogic path when undertaken with sincere dedication and mastery over one’s self.

Sanskrit

श्रीभगवान् उवाच

असंयतात्मना योगो दुष्प्राप इति मे मतिः ।

वश्यात्मना तु यतता शक्योऽवाप्तुमुपायतः ॥ 6:36 ॥

Word Separation

अ-संयत-आत्मना योगः दुष्प्रापः— इति मे मतिः!

वश्य-आत्मना तु यतता शक्यः अवाप्तुम् उपायतः।

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