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Bhagavad Gita 6.32
The traditional text
सुखं वा यदि वा दुःखं सः योगी परमो मतः॥
Roman reading aid
ātmaupamyena sarvatra samaṃ paśyati yo ’rjuna |
sukhaṃ vā yadi vā duḥkhaṃ saḥ yogī paramo mataḥ ||
Meaning in everyday language
Arjuna, the yogi who sees the happiness and suffering of others everywhere by comparison with oneself, with equal regard, is considered the highest.
Understand the teaching
The surrounding verses speak of seeing the Self in all beings and all beings in the Self. This verse makes that vision ethically vivid through atmaupamya, comparison with oneself. Our familiarity with wanting happiness and avoiding suffering can open attention to another being’s experience. Yoga’s inward discipline is thus connected to the quality of our regard for others.
Comparison is a beginning, so listening still matters. What would embarrass me may not be exactly what troubles a classmate. I can use my own vulnerability to become considerate, then ask and listen instead of assuming that I already know. Such a reflection gives equal concern a concrete form in a classroom or household.
Words and phrases
- आत्मौपम्येन (ātmaupamyena)
- by comparison with oneself
- सर्वत्र (sarvatra)
- everywhere
- समं पश्यति (samaṃ paśyati)
- sees with equal regard
- सुखं ... दुःखम् (sukhaṃ ... duḥkham)
- happiness ... suffering
- परमः (paramaḥ)
- highest or foremost
Pause and think
A classmate is being mocked. How could atmaupamya guide your next step?
See an explained answer
Remembering how ridicule can feel, I can stop adding to it, offer support and listen to what my classmate wants. If the situation continues, I can seek appropriate help.