5 Shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita with Full Verses and Practical Applications
The Bhagavad Gita offers timeless wisdom on various aspects of life, from self-discipline to spiritual enlightenment. Here are five more shlokas, with full translations and practical applications for living a balanced and meaningful life.
1. Shloka: Chapter 5, Verse 10
ब्रह्मण्याधाय कर्माणि सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा करोति य:। लिप्यते न स पापेन पद्मपत्रमिवाम्भसा॥
Translation: “One who performs their duties, renouncing attachment and offering the results to the Supreme, remains unaffected by sin, just as a lotus leaf is untouched by water.”
Application in Life:
This shloka teaches the principle of Karma Yoga—acting without attachment to the results. By dedicating your work to a higher cause and letting go of personal desires, you remain unaffected by the ups and downs of life, just like a lotus leaf stays dry even when in water.
Example:
When pursuing your career or personal goals, focus on the action rather than the outcome. This mindset helps in avoiding disappointment and staying grounded regardless of success or failure.
2. Shloka: Chapter 12, Verse 13
अद्वेष्टा सर्वभूतानां मैत्र: करुण एव च। निर्ममो निरहङ्कार: समदु:खसुख: क्षमी॥
Translation: “One who is free from malice towards others, who is friendly and compassionate, free from possessiveness and ego, balanced in pleasure and pain, and forgiving, is dear to Me.”
Application in Life:
This verse highlights the qualities of a truly spiritual person—compassion, humility, forgiveness, and equanimity. Developing these traits can lead to inner peace and a harmonious life, free from negative emotions like envy or anger.
Example:
In everyday interactions, practice kindness and patience, even in difficult situations. By letting go of ego and embracing forgiveness, you create more peace for yourself and others.
3. Shloka: Chapter 3, Verse 21
यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जन:। स यत्प्रमाणं कुरुते लोकस्तदनुवर्तते॥
Translation: “Whatever action is performed by a great person, common people follow. Whatever standards they set by exemplary acts, the world follows.”
Application in Life:
This shloka emphasizes the importance of leadership by example. Your actions, especially as a leader or role model, inspire others to follow. Living a life of integrity and good conduct sets a positive example for others around you.
Example:
Whether at work or in your personal life, remember that others may look up to you. By maintaining ethical behavior and a positive attitude, you set a standard for those around you to emulate.
4. Shloka: Chapter 6, Verse 7
जितात्मन: प्रशान्तस्य परमात्मा समाहित:। शीतोष्णसुखदु:खेषु तथा मानापमानयो:॥
Translation: “For one who has conquered the mind, the Supreme Soul is already reached, for they are calm in heat and cold, pleasure and pain, honor and dishonor.”
Application in Life:
This shloka highlights the value of mental discipline and equanimity. A person who has control over their mind remains calm and unaffected by external changes, whether it’s physical discomfort or emotional challenges. This stability brings a deeper connection with the divine.
Example:
Practice mindfulness and self-control in situations that challenge you, such as stress at work or personal conflicts. By mastering your mind, you can maintain inner peace in all circumstances.
5. Shloka: Chapter 18, Verse 66
सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणं व्रज। अहं त्वां सर्वपापेभ्यो मोक्षयिष्यामि मा शुच:॥
Translation: “Abandon all varieties of duties and simply surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear.”
Application in Life:
This shloka teaches the ultimate principle of surrendering to the divine. Letting go of ego and the need to control every aspect of life, and instead, trusting the divine plan brings liberation from fear and anxiety. It offers the promise of spiritual freedom through surrender.
Example:
In times of great stress or when feeling overwhelmed, instead of trying to control everything, trust in the higher power or universal flow. This mindset brings relief and helps in letting go of unnecessary worries.
Conclusion
These additional shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita provide further guidance on the path of mental discipline, compassion, and spiritual surrender. By applying these principles in daily life, one can cultivate balance, inner peace, and spiritual growth.