2.56 — What does steady wisdom look like?

Sanskrit · Teaching film · Everyday practice

Speaker: Krishna, addressing Arjuna.

The shloka

दुःखेष्वनुद्विग्न‍मनाः सुखेषु विगतस्पृहः ।
वीतरागभयक्रोधः स्थितधीर्मुनिरुच्यते ॥ ५६ ॥

Brief meaning

Steadiness includes not being overwhelmed by sorrow or craving pleasure, and freedom from the grip of attachment, fear and anger.

In the conversation

Arjuna now asks about the person of steady wisdom. Krishna begins with inner satisfaction and freedom from being ruled by craving, fear and anger. The question about speaking, sitting and moving reaches beyond outward posture. An appearance of calm alone cannot establish the inner state described.

Everyday reflection

Imagine receiving a sharp comment during a meeting. You notice anger rising and the wish to answer immediately. A steadier response might begin with listening for the actual concern, then asking a precise question. You can disagree firmly without making retaliation the purpose of your reply. This small practice is not a claim that you have attained the sage’s condition. It is a way to examine what directs your speech when your pride feels threatened.

Consider today: Recognise a feeling before letting it direct your response.