Bhagavad Gita 6.23 — Yoga is the Separation from Union with Sorrow
तं विद्याद्दुःखसंयोगवियोगं योगसंज्ञितम्।
स निश्चयेन योक्तव्यो योगोऽनिर्विण्णचेतसा॥ ६.२३॥
That state in which a person becomes free from the bondage of sorrow is called Yoga. This Yoga should be practiced with firm determination and an undiscouraged, cheerful, and persevering mind.
Transliteration (IAST)
Word Separation
The Sanskrit verse is separated into individual words (Padched) for easier study.
Word Meanings
| Line 1 | |
|---|---|
| Sanskrit Word | Meaning |
| tam | that |
| vidyāt | one should know |
| duḥkhasaṃyogaviyogam | the complete separation from union with sorrow |
| yogasaṃjñitam | known as Yoga |
| Line 2 | |
|---|---|
| Sanskrit Word | Meaning |
| saḥ | that Yoga |
| niścayena | with firm determination |
| yoktavyaḥ | should be practiced |
| yogaḥ | Yoga |
| anirviṇṇacetasā | with an undiscouraged and steadfast mind |
| Line 1 | Line 2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanskrit Word | Meaning | Sanskrit Word | Meaning |
| tam | that | saḥ | that Yoga |
| vidyāt | one should know | niścayena | with firm determination |
| duḥkhasaṃyogaviyogam | the complete separation from union with sorrow | yoktavyaḥ | should be practiced |
| yogasaṃjñitam | known as Yoga | yogaḥ | Yoga |
| anirviṇṇacetasā | with an undiscouraged and steadfast mind | ||
Detailed Meaning
Introduction
In this verse, Lord Krishna gives a concise yet profound definition of yoga and encourages the seeker to practice it with firm determination and perseverance.
Essence
Lord Krishna's Profound Spiritual Insight
After describing the highest state of realization, Lord Krishna now defines yoga in a practical way so that every seeker can understand its true purpose.
Taṁ vidyād duḥkha-saṁyoga-viyogam (know yoga as separation from union with suffering): Lord Krishna defines yoga as the state in which a person becomes free from the causes of suffering. Suffering arises because the mind becomes attached to temporary objects, expectations, and desires. Yoga gradually breaks this unhealthy bond, allowing the seeker to experience lasting inner freedom.
Yoga-saṁjñitam (this is what is truly called yoga): Yoga is not merely a system of physical postures or breathing exercises. Its true meaning is liberation from the mental habits that give rise to anxiety, attachment, and sorrow.
Sa niścayena yoktavyo (it should be practiced with determination): Spiritual progress requires steady commitment. Occasional enthusiasm is not enough. The seeker must continue practicing with patience, confidence, and perseverance, even when immediate results are not visible.
Yogo'nirviṇṇa-cetasā (without becoming discouraged): There will be challenges, distractions, and periods when progress seems slow. Lord Krishna advises the seeker never to become disheartened. A cheerful, patient, and determined mind is essential for success in yoga.
Thus, Lord Krishna teaches that yoga is a lifelong journey of freeing oneself from the roots of suffering through consistent and unwavering practice.
Message for Everyday Life (Perseverance on the Spiritual Path)
Do not give up when progress feels slow: Every worthwhile achievement requires patience, and spiritual growth is no exception.
Practical approach: Continue your daily spiritual practices—even if the results are not immediately noticeable. Every sincere effort purifies the mind and gradually brings lasting peace and freedom from suffering.
Next Topic
Having defined yoga as freedom from suffering, Lord Krishna now explains the practical discipline required to attain it, beginning with the need to gradually give up desires born of mental projections and to bring the mind under control.
Hidden Messages In This Shloka
Reflect on this verse from different perspectives and see which deeper message opens up for you.
Wisdom Nuggets
Freedom begins when suffering no longer controls the mind.
Steady effort succeeds where occasional enthusiasm fails.
Progress belongs to those who refuse to quit.
Inner peace grows when attachment to pain decreases.
Discouragement is often the final obstacle before growth.
Yoga is not escape from life but freedom within life.
A determined heart can outlast many difficulties.