Chapter 2: Sānkhya Yoga – Yoga of Contemplation on Self: Verse 58
यदा संहरते चायं कूर्मोऽङ्गानीव सर्वश: ।
इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेभ्यस्तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ॥
yadā saṃharate cāyaṃ kūrmo’ṅgānīva sarvaśa:
indriyāṇīndriyārthebhyas-tasya prajñā pratiṣṭhitā – 2.58
When one is able to withdraw completely his five senses from their respective objects, just like the turtle does its limbs at will with facility, his consciousness has become steady.
Chapter 2: Sānkhya Yoga – Yoga of Contemplation on Self - Verse 58
Ma Gurupriya
Krishna brings the turtle to exemplify the efficiency and effectiveness of the Sthita-dhee. It is a fact that one’s interaction with the world is primarily in and through the senses, which are five. This makes the interactions fivefold. Hence, to moderate and sublimate interactions, one has to focus on his senses alone.
Shut your eyes; no visual object will act on you. The same principle applies to the other senses. Sensory indulgence can enslave one to any extent.
Therefore, to be effective and successful in life, the only way is to gain sufficient sense-control, nay moderation. Sensory withdrawal can be had, says Krishna, as does the turtle withdraw its limbs.
Let not the world frighten you. The senses connecting you to the world are in and with you, giving ample scope for your spiritual effectiveness and mastery.
