Anger is a strong emotion that can overpower our thoughts and lead to destruction if not controlled. This is where the Bhagavad Gita teachings on emotional control and self-awareness offer profound insights into managing emotions, especially anger.
Let's understand in detail what Lord Krishna says to Arjuna on the battlefield of the Mahabharata about anger and how we can apply it.
Lesson 1: The Chain Reaction (Understanding The Mechanism Of Anger)
ध्यायतो विषयान्पुंसः सङ्गस्तेषूपजायते
सङ्गात् संजायते कामः कामात्क्रोधोऽभिजायते
"When one thinks of objects, attachment to them arises; from attachment, desire is born; from desire, anger arises."
In Verse 63, Chapter 2 of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains how contemplating sense objects leads to attachment, which gives birth to desire, from which anger is born. It's like a chain reaction. This is not merely philosophy; it's a blueprint for how anger can lead to self-destruction.
From this, Lord Krishna doesn't tell us to 'not be angry'. Instead, he reveals why anger arises, what it destroys, and how to address it at its root cause.
In Verse 63, Chapter 2 of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains how contemplating sense objects leads to attachment (Image: Facebook/ShriHariKroshna)
Lesson 2: Practising Samatvam (Equanimity In Chaos)
योगस्थ: कुरु कर्माणि सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा धनञ्जय ।
सिद्ध्यसिद्ध्यो: समो भूत्वा समत्वं योग उच्यते
Be steadfast in the performance of your duty, O Arjun, abandoning attachment to success and failure. Such equanimity is called Yoga.
In Verse 48, Chapter 2 of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna lays out one of the most important concepts and explains the importance of equanimity - samatvam. He calls this evenness of mind yoga itself.
Through this, Lord Krishna explains how one should approach life and how they can control anger. Don't let situations control your emotions. When things go well, people get excited, and when they go wrong, they get upset. So, one should focus on doing their karma, and it can only be achieved by practising yoga.
A person who has mastered it remains calm and remains steady through life changes.
Lesson 3: The Duty Of Detachment
विहाय कामान्य: सर्वान्पुमांश्चरति नि:स्पृह: ।
निर्ममो निरहङ्कार: स शान्तिमधिगच्छति
That person who gives up all material desires and lives free from a sense of greed, proprietorship, and egoism attains perfect peace.
In Chapter 2, Verse 71, Lord Krishna explains that liberation is achieved when one is free from desires and longing, without any sense of ‘mine’ and without ego.
This quote teaches that not every desire deserves pursuit; do not get attached to objects, let go of ego to create a stronger relationship and focus on inner growth that comes from character development.
ALSO READ: Lord Krishna On Attachment: 5 Practical Bhagavad Gita Lessons For Letting Go
How To Apply This Teaching In Modern Life?
Here are some practical ways to apply these teachings in practical life:
- If angry, instead of reacting instantly, one should take a pause and take slow, deep breaths. Even a short pause prevents impulsive reactions.
- Then ask yourself: ‘Will my response improve the situation or worsen it?’ This reflection will help you to create self-awareness.
- Practice meditation, yoga, and perform breathing exercises to improve self-control and reduce the intensity of anger over time.
- Try to understand which people, situations, or patterns provoke anger. It helps you understand yourself better.
- Regular reflection on these shlokas will help you to control your emotions and develop a habit of thoughtful response rather than impulsive reaction.
If angry, instead of reacting instantly, one should take a pause and take slow, deep breaths (Image: Pexels)
ALSO READ: Bhagavad Gita Quotes On Karma: 20+ Lessons About Actions And Their Consequences
Did you find these teachings helpful?
FAQs
1. What does the Bhagavad Gita say about anger?
The Bhagavad Gita presents a complete psychology of anger. In Verses 62-63, Chapter 2 of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains that anger arises from attachment and desire, then leads to delusion, memory loss, destroyed intelligence, and complete ruin.
2. Can this teaching be applied in modern life?
Yes. Anger affects careers, relationships, and mental health. Applying this wisdom develops emotional intelligence, patience, and clarity.