Bhagavad Gita 6.19 — Yatha Dipo Nivata-stho — Word-by-Word Meaning
श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता ६.१९ — यथा दीपो निवातस्थो
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
यथा
yathā
as, just like
दीपः
dīpaḥ
a lamp, a flame
निवातस्थः
nivāta-sthaḥ
situated in a windless place
न इङ्गते
na iṅgate
does not flicker or waver
सा
sā
this, that
उपमा
upamā
analogy, simile
स्मृता
smṛitā
is considered, is remembered/given
योगिनः
yoginaḥ
of the yogi
यतचित्तस्य
yata-chittasya
whose mind is controlled and disciplined
युञ्जतः
yuñjataḥ
steadily practicing, engaging in union
योगम्
yogam
yoga, meditation
आत्मनः
ātmanaḥ
of the Self, on the Supreme Self
Complete Translation
As a lamp placed in a windless spot does not flicker — this is the simile given for the disciplined mind of a yogi who is steadily absorbed in the meditation of the Self.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 19
Author: Sage Veda Vyasa (Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva)
Period: Ancient (text compiled c. 5th–2nd century BCE)
In the sixth chapter, Dhyana Yoga, Krishna explains in detail how a seeker should meditate — the seat, the posture, the steadying of the mind, and the withdrawal of the senses. As the mind grows still through practice, it reaches the state described here, likened to a lamp burning motionless in windless air, fully absorbed in the Self.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the famous simile in Bhagavad Gita 6.19?▼
Krishna compares the disciplined mind of a yogi absorbed in meditation to a lamp flame in a windless place that does not flicker. It is one of the most beloved images of inner steadiness in the entire Gita.
What does the steady lamp represent?▼
The unflickering flame represents a mind that has become perfectly calm and one-pointed through controlled thought and steady meditation on the Self. With no 'wind' of distraction, the mind shines steadily and reveals the inner light of the Atman.
How can I apply this verse to my meditation?▼
Create a quiet, distraction-free setting (the 'windless spot'), sit steadily, and hold your attention gently and continuously on the Self or your chosen focus. When the mind wavers, recall the image of the still flame and let it settle again into unbroken stillness.
Where does this verse appear in the Gita?▼
It is part of the sixth chapter, Dhyana Yoga, where Krishna describes the method, posture and inner state of meditation. This verse marks the description of the perfectly absorbed, unwavering mind that the practice aims to attain.
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