सुहृन्मित्रार्युदासीनमध्यस्थद्वेष्यबन्धुषु। साधुष्वपि च पापेषु समबुद्धिर्विशिष्यते
The verse mentions well-wishers, friends, enemies, neutrals, mediators, those who are hateful, relatives, the virtuous, and the sinful. It teaches that true equanimity involves seeing all these different types of people with the same balanced perspective.
Self-discipline need not mean hostility toward yourself. Choose one helpful habit you can sustain, and notice the inner voice you use when things do not go as planned.
Would I speak to someone I care about the way I speak to myself?
Write a private reflectionGo deeper into this verse
How does the verse describe the person who sees suhrid (well-wishers) and bandhu (relatives) with equal vision as others?
The verse describes such a person as supreme or distinguished. This individual is able to maintain the same calm and impartial attitude towards well-wishers, relatives, and all other people, regardless of their relationship or behavior, which sets them apart in spiritual maturity.
Why is being samabuddhi, or equal-minded, towards both sadhus (the virtuous) and papis (the sinful) emphasized in this teaching?
Being equal-minded towards both the virtuous and the sinful demonstrates a deep realization of the unity that underlies all beings. It shows that one has transcended personal judgments and recognizes the Divine presence in everyone, regardless of their actions or character.
In Chapter 6, Verse 9, what does the term 'madhyastha' (mediator) signify in the context of this verse's message of impartiality?
'Madhyastha' refers to someone who stands in the middle, mediating between others. The verse includes mediators to illustrate that spiritual equanimity extends not just to friends or foes, but also to those who are neutral or play intermediary roles. True balance is to treat all, even those who simply observe or mediate, with the same respect and composure.
What practical steps can help cultivate samabuddhi, or equanimity, towards people who are dveṣya (objects of hatred)?
To cultivate equanimity towards those we dislike, one can practice self-reflection to understand the source of aversion, remind oneself of the common divine nature in all beings, and consciously respond rather than react to negative feelings. Regular meditation and compassion exercises can also help dissolve strong negative emotions, leading to a more balanced and peaceful mind towards everyone.
He who regards impartially lovers, friends, and foes, strangers, neutrals, foreigners and relatives, also the righteous and unrighteous, he excelleth.