Illustration for Bhagavad Gita chapter 3 verse 6
Chapter 3 · Karma Yoga

Inner Honesty · Beyond Outward Show

कर्मेन्द्रियाणि संयम्य य आस्ते मनसा स्मरन् । इन्द्रियार्थान्विमूढात्मा मिथ्याचारः स उच्यते ।।6।।

karmendriyāṇi saṃyamya ya āste manasā smaran indriyārthān vimūḍhātmā mithyācāraḥ sa ucyate

Meaning

"One who restrains the organs of action but continues to dwell mentally on sense objects is deluded and called a hypocrite."

Explanation

Krishna calls out the hollowness of outward restraint that hides inner craving — a caution against spiritual pretense.

Today's Life Lesson

Be honest with yourself today about whether your restraint is genuine or just a performance for others.

More verses to reflect on