Pilot entry: source checked; awaiting review by readers from this tradition.
Original source · Historical tradition
Bhagavad Gita (within the Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva): Chapter 6 (Dhyana Yoga), verse 5
“One must deliver himself with the help of his mind, and not degrade himself.”Translation: A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Bhagavad-gita As It Is (© The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust)
Krishna tells Arjuna that a person should raise themselves up by their own self (or mind) and not let themselves sink, because the self/mind can be one's own friend or one's own enemy.
Read the full passage at the source.
Edition: Short quotation from Bhagavad-gita As It Is, © The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust. This translation reflects the reading of one tradition (Gaudiya Vaishnava); other translations render the verse differently.
Historical context
Historical context
The Gita is an episode of the Mahabharata, framed as a dialogue between Krishna and the warrior Arjuna before the Kurukshetra battle. Scholars commonly date its composition somewhere between roughly the 5th and 2nd centuries BCE, with some later layers proposed; dating is debated.
Interpretations differ
Within the tradition
The Sanskrit 'atman' here can be read as 'self', 'mind', or both, so translations differ. Advaita, Vishishtadvaita, Dvaita and Gaudiya Vaishnava commentators frame the verse differently (e.g. self-mastery toward liberation vs. devotion). Modern readers often take it as a teaching on self-discipline in meditation, consistent with Chapter 6's theme.
Respect and care
Cultural protocol
The Bhagavad Gita is sacred scripture for many Hindus. We name the translation we quote and its school, and we treat Krishna’s name and image with respect.
21 EFFECTS contemporary reflection · Empowerment
A practice inspired by this text
This practice is a 21 EFFECTS reflection. It is not the tradition’s own teaching or its only meaning, and you do not need to share its beliefs to use it.
- Notice one recurring thought pattern today that pulls you down.
- Pause when it appears and name it.
- Choose an intentional response instead of the habitual one.
When was my own mind my friend today, and when was it my enemy?
Does this speak to you?
Saved sources accompany your journey days as an extra reflection. Private, on this device only.
Further research
Go to the source
Bhagavad Gita (within the Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva): Chapter 6 (Dhyana Yoga), verse 5. Read the passage in full, in context, and with teachers from the tradition where possible. Spotted an error? Send a correction.