Bhagavad Gita 12.15 — Yasman Nodvijate Loko — Word-by-Word Meaning
श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता १२.१५ — यस्मान्नोद्विजते लोको
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
यस्मात्
yasmāt
by whom
न
na
not
उद्विजते
udvijate
are agitated
लोकः
lokaḥ
people
लोकात्
lokāt
from people
न
na
not
उद्विजते
udvijate
are disturbed
च
cha
and
यः
yaḥ
who
हर्ष
harṣha
pleasure
अमर्ष
amarṣha
pain
भय
bhaya
fear
उद्वेगैः
udvegaiḥ
anxiety
मुक्तः
muktaḥ
freed
यः
yaḥ
who
सः
saḥ
they
च
cha
and
मे
me
to me
प्रियः
priyaḥ
very dear
Complete Translation
He whom the world does not agitate, and who cannot be agitated by the world, and who is freed from joy, anger, fear, and anxiety—he is dear to Me.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 12, Verse 15
Author: Sage Veda Vyasa (Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva)
Period: Ancient (text compiled c. 5th–2nd century BCE)
In the concluding portion of the Bhakti Yoga chapter, Krishna describes the marks of a devotee who is most dear to Him (12.13–12.20). This verse is one of a garland of such descriptions, portraying the serene, harmless and unshakeable nature of one absorbed in loving devotion to God.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is being described in Bhagavad Gita 12.15?▼
Krishna is describing the ideal devotee (bhakta) who is "dear to Me". From verses 12.13 to 12.20 He lists the qualities of such a soul; this verse highlights one who neither troubles the world nor is troubled by it, and is free from the agitations of joy, anger, fear and anxiety.
What does "the world does not agitate him" mean?▼
It means the realised devotee remains calm and balanced regardless of praise, blame, gain or loss. Equally, he behaves so gently and selflessly that he causes no fear or disturbance to others. This mutual non-disturbance is a sign of deep inner peace.
How can I develop these qualities?▼
Through steady devotion, self-awareness and practice. By repeatedly observing the mind's reactions of elation and anger and surrendering them to the Lord, one gradually attains the equanimity this verse describes. Regular contemplation of the verse itself helps internalise the ideal.
Why are these qualities important in Bhakti Yoga?▼
Krishna explicitly says such a devotee is "dear to Me". Cultivating peace, tolerance and freedom from fear is not separate from devotion — it is its natural fruit and also its supporting practice, making the heart a fit dwelling for the Lord.
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