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Chapter 5 • Verse 21
The Yoga of Renunciation
MEANING & CONTEXT
Krishna describes the yogi's source of happiness: one whose self is unattached (asaktātmā) to external contacts (bāhya-sparśeṣu) finds (vindati) happiness (sukham) in the Self (ātmani). Such a person (saḥ), whose self is engaged in union with Brahman (brahma-yoga-yuktātmā), enjoys (aśnute) imperishable happiness (akṣayam sukham). This means the yogi doesn't depend on external objects for happiness—they find happiness within. External pleasures are temporary and depend on objects—the yogi finds happiness in the Self, which is imperishable. This is the practical outcome of karma yoga—happiness that doesn't depend on external circumstances.
Explore Human Experiences
How this ancient wisdom applies to your daily life
Key Takeaway
This verse reveals the yogi's source of happiness: one whose self is unattached to external contacts finds happiness in the Self. Such a person enjoys imperishable happiness through union with Brahman. External pleasures are temporary and depend on objects—the yogi finds happiness in the Self, which is imperishable. This is the practical outcome of karma yoga—happiness that doesn't depend on external circumstances. You don't need external objects to be happy—you need to find happiness within. When you're unattached to external contacts, you discover the source of happiness that's always available, regardless of circumstances.
Personal Reflection
Are you seeking happiness in external objects, or have you found happiness in the Self? Where do you depend on external circumstances for happiness? How can finding happiness within free you from dependence on external objects?
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