Sankhya yoga is the second chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, which is one of the most important texts in the veda tradition. In this chapter, Lord Krishna explains the concept of Sankhya philosophy to Arjuna.
The word Sankhya means ‘enumeration’ or ‘discrimination’. The Sankhya philosophy is based on the idea that the universe is made up of two fundamental realities – Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter). Purusha is the eternal, unchanging, and pure consciousness, while Prakriti is the material nature that is subject to change.
Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna that the true nature of the self is pure consciousness, which is eternal and unchanging. The body, mind, and senses are part of the material nature and are subject to change. He emphasizes that the self is not the body, mind, or senses but is the eternal consciousness that is present within each individual.
Krishna also teaches Arjuna that the pursuit of knowledge is the path to liberation. One should strive to understand the true nature of the self and the universe through the practice of discrimination and detachment. He encourages Arjuna to be steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge and to cultivate equanimity in all situations.
The Sankhya yoga is an important chapter in the Bhagavad Gita as it lays the foundation for the other yogas that are discussed in the later chapters. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of the self and the universe and provides a philosophical framework for the practice of yoga.