Bhagavad Gita · Verse 2.41
Chapter 2: Sankhya Yoga (सांख्ययोगः)
(The Supreme Lord said)
व्यवसायात्मिका बुद्धिरेकेह कुरुनन्दन । बहुशाखा ह्यनन्ताश्च बुद्धयोऽव्यवसायिनाम् ॥४१॥
vyavasāyātmikā buddhirekeha kurunandana | bahuśākhā hyanantāśca buddhayo'vyavasāyinām ||41||
Complete Shloka Translation
In this path, resolute understanding has a single focus, descendant of Kuru. The understanding of the irresolute branches endlessly in many directions.
Word-by-Word Translation (Padartha / Anvaya)
| Sanskrit Term (पद) | IAST Roman | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| व्यवसायात्मिका | vyavasāyātmikā | resolute |
| बहुशाखाः | bahuśākhāḥ | many-branched |
| बुद्धिरेकेह | buddhirekeha | [term] in context of In this path, resolute underst... |
| कुरुनन्दन | kurunandana | [term] in context of In this path, resolute underst... |
| बहुशाखा | bahuśākhā | [term] in context of In this path, resolute underst... |
| ह्यनन्ताश्च | hyanantāśca | [term] in context of In this path, resolute underst... |
| बुद्धयोऽव्यवसायिनाम् | buddhayo'vyavasāyinām | [term] in context of In this path, resolute underst... |
| ४१ | buddhayo'vyavasāyinām | [term] in context of In this path, resolute underst... |
resolute
many-branched
[term] in context of In this path, resolute underst...
[term] in context of In this path, resolute underst...
[term] in context of In this path, resolute underst...
[term] in context of In this path, resolute underst...
[term] in context of In this path, resolute underst...
[term] in context of In this path, resolute underst...
Detailed Commentary & Meaningful Thoughts
One focus means coherence of spiritual purpose. It does not require refusing inquiry; the contrast is with desire-driven dispersion rather than thoughtful questioning.
Philosophical Reflection & Self-Inquiry
"A clear purpose keeps practice from being pulled apart by competing desires."
Inquiry Question to Ponder:
Which competing desires scatter your attention from a meaningful purpose?
Modern Life Implementation (Practical Real-Life Application)
Apply this verse when facing identity crisis or fear of failure: distinguish the unchanging inner self from transient life situations, and act with full dedication without anxiety over the final outcome.