In Bhagavad-gita (7.1), Krishna introduces the chapter and the section extending from chapters 7 to 12. This is known as the bhakti section, with the significant compound word mayy āsakta-manāḥ—the mind attached to me.
The mind constantly causes us anxiety and trouble, often self-created. Thus, we may find it vital to control the mind. While this approach has value, the Gita shifts from controlling the mind in chapter six to attaching it to Krishna in chapter seven and beyond. From this point, the Bhagavad-gita focuses less on mind control and more on fixing the mind on Krishna through remembrance and service. Controlling the mind is essential for focusing it on Krishna, but our main goal should be clear: the ultimate aim is to make the mind love Krishna. Thus, controlling the mind is a means to achieve that end. If we focus too much on control, we may develop an antagonistic attitude toward the mind, sidelining the goal of attachment to Krishna. Krishna consciousness shouldn’t become a casualty in the battle for mind control, nor should it be merely a tool for it. We want to control our mind to fix it on Krishna, not the other way around.
The difference between these two approaches is threefold. First, it underscores the importance of prioritizing attachment to Krishna over merely striving for mind control. Second, we must recognize and value ways to focus on Krishna without battling our minds. For example, if we like music and musical meditation with Krishna’s holy name, we need to leverage that. This way, the mind gradually realizes that the sweet Krishna in kirtan is the same Krishna accessible through japa, even if chanting isn’t initially relishable. Consider physical fitness: we might not enjoy working out but love dancing. As we engage in dancing, we realize it’s also a form of physical activity. This shifts our perspective, making physical activity enjoyable. Similarly, Krishna manifests in individual chanting (japa) and musical meditation (kirtan). By engaging in kirtan regularly, we recognize Krishna’s presence in both. Gradually, we seek and enjoy experiencing Krishna in individual chanting, and japa as well. When we focus on practices that resonate with us, like kirtan, our mind learns to connect these enjoyable experiences with the spiritual practice of chanting. Eventually, we find joy in taking Krishna’s name in any form.
The third point is that our goal is to transform the mind’s taste. We want the mind to naturally incline toward Krishna, even if our worldly obligations prevent us from doing so immediately. Though it may seem distant, achieving this is possible. By keeping this goal in mind, we will approach all our devotional practices with affection, even those we don’t yet find fulfilling, as recommended in Bhagavad-gita (10.10). This devotion will earn us the intelligence to grow closer to Krishna in every aspect.
Summary:
- Our goal in the spiritual journey is to align the mind with Krishna, using mind control as a tool.
- Avoid an adversarial attitude towards the mind; recognize that Krishna manifests in all forms, regardless of the mind’s preferences.
- Change the mind’s taste and connect it with Krishna in various ways to accelerate the journey toward making the mind a friend.
Think it Over:
- What is the issue with prioritizing controlling the mind over the primary goal of spiritual growth?
- List at least one spiritual area where your mind connects with Krishna without needing to be controlled.
- How can you adjust your approach to the mind once you realize that the goal is connecting it with Krishna, not just controlling it?
***
07.01 – The Supreme Personality of Godhead said: Now hear, O son of Pṛthā, how by practicing yoga in full consciousness of Me, with mind attached to Me, you can know Me in full, free from doubt.
Leave A Comment