118. Change is Constant


Change is constant in the physical or manifested world whereas the unmanifested or atma remains changeless. A mechanism is needed to bring coherence between these two worlds. Metaphorically, it’s like the ball bearing mechanism between a stationary hub and a rotating wheel or like a gearbox handling two different speeds from the engine and wheels. Similarly, it’s a mechanism of senses, mind (mann) and intellect (buddhi) between the changeless atma and the ever-changing world of objects. Krishna described a hierarchy that the senses are superior to sense-objects, the mind is superior to the senses, and superior to the mind is the intellect, and superior even to the intellect is the self or atma (3.42).

The physical part of the senses automatically responds to changes in the physical world. The mind is a combination of the controller part of the senses and memory. The mind is expected to handle every outside change brought to it by the physical part of the senses to keep us safe. The main issue is whether the mind is controlled by sensual stimuli or intellect. It would be a reactionary life if dictated by stimuli and a life of awareness if guided by the intellect.

That’s why Krishna advises us to begin the practice of restraining the senses using the intellect to let the mind be established in the self (6.25). He encourages us to practice this with determination and enthusiasm (6.23). Contemporary literature also suggests that ten thousand hours of practice is needed to master any skill.

While restraining the senses we need to abandon all desires born of sankalp (will or purpose or motive or resolve) (6.24). Restraining senses is nothing but abandoning the desire to get sensual stimuli of our choice. Krishna assures that once we attain the supreme bliss of transcending senses, we will not be moved even by great sorrows (6.22).


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