Perfection Lakshanas
– The Steady Wisdom of the Stitha Prajna (Chapter 2)
This is post 181. This week we will cover Lakshanas (traits). We will see two verses from each of them. Join the Mini-class to learn, reflect, and live the Stitha Prajna Lakshanas. I will be closing registration soon, join today if you are interested.
Introduction
What does it mean to be centered when everything around us is spinning? The Bhagavad Gita calls this Stitha Prajna — the one whose wisdom is steady. In Chapter 2, Krishna describes the characteristics of such a person. These aren't otherworldly traits — they're deeply human capacities cultivated through practice.
Just Two Key Verses
Verse 2.56
duḥkheṣhv anudvigna-manāḥ sukheṣhu vigata-spṛihaḥ
vīta-rāga-bhaya-krodhaḥ sthita-dhīr munir uchyateOne who is not disturbed by sorrow, who has no craving for joy, who is free from attachment, fear, and anger — is called a sage of steady wisdom.
Verse 2.70
āpūryamāṇam achala-pratiṣhṭhaṁ
samudram āpaḥ praviśhanti yadvat
tadvat kāmā yaṁ praviśhanti sarve
sa śhāntim āpnoti na kāma-kāmīJust as rivers enter the ocean, which remains unmoved, so too do desires enter the one who is steady, not the one who seeks desires. Such a person attains peace.
Listen:
Contemporary Example: Mahatma Gandhi
Despite extreme opposition, imprisonment, and physical assaults, Gandhi held fast to his principles. Whether praised or blamed, he remained committed to non-violence and truth. He modeled the ocean-like stability the Gita speaks of — welcoming experiences without being overwhelmed by them.
Everyday Example: A neighbor
Closer to home, my neighbor Jim, who has never read the Gita, is a living example of Stitha Prajna. Despite the numerous challenges he faces he meets them with a calm and grounded presence. Just like the ocean that remains steady whether big waves or small waves crash into it, Jim’s mindset is undisturbed. His inner stillness and outer resiliance is a quiet inspiration, a reminder that wisdom isn't always learned through scripture — sometimes, it's lived.
Reflective Action
When you're criticized or praised today, pause. Ask: “Can I be like the ocean?” Let the words in, but remain anchored.
🌿 Join the Mini-Class: Learn, Reflect, and Live the Stitha Prajna Verses
If this post resonated with you and you'd like to go deeper, I invite you to join a short and powerful Mini-Class on the Stitha Prajna verses from Chapter 2 of the Bhagavad Gita.
Together, we will:
Learn the original verses in Sanskrit with meaning and context
Reflect through journaling prompts
Live these teachings with simple daily practices
Whether you're new to the Gita or have studied it for years, this class is designed to meet you where you are — and help you grow from there.
Please continue to share Gita For EveryOne within your network. Your support in spreading these timeless teachings makes a significant impact!
Warm regards,
Suresh Srinivas
Gita For Everyone | One Minute Gita Gems | Gita In National Parks | EveryTab Gita
