Verse 18.36 : Moksha Sanyasa Yoga "Liberation and Renunciation"
Verse 36 of 78
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The Translation
“And now hear from Me, O best of the Bharatas, about the three kinds of happiness, in which one finds joy through long practice, and by which one reaches the end of all pain.”
Commentary & Insights
Krishna introduces the topic of happiness (sukham). In Vedic philosophy, happiness is the ultimate goal of all life. Krishna explains that happiness is not a random accident, but is directly linked to the quality of our mind and daily practices (abhyasa).
Practical Application
1
Commit to a positive habit (like exercise or reading) for at least 21 days, recognizing that true joy takes time to cultivate.
Reflections & Notes
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Self-Reflection Prompts
- Why is true, deep happiness described as requiring 'long practice' (abhyāsa)? How does it differ from a quick spike in dopamine?
- How can a spiritual practice slowly dissolve our capacity to experience mental suffering?
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18.36
सुखं त्विदानीं त्रिविधं शृणु मे भरतर्षभ
Shankara comments that 'abhyāsāt' means through constant repetition of meditation and spiritual study. This is not like worldly sensory pleasure which is immediate but temporary. True happiness is a state of being that grows slowly as the mind is purified, culminating in the end of all misery.