"Citta" is a Sanskrit term that features prominently in both the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita, as well as numerous other Sanskrit texts. Essential to Hindu philosophy, it roughly translates to "mind" or "consciousness" in English, but the term holds deeper connotations in its original context.
In the Bhagavad Gita, one of the theological dialogues of the Mahabharata, "citta" holds a sincere significance. It alludes to the amalgamation of our thoughts, memories, awareness, will, desires, feelings, and perceptions. Essentially, it is the receptacle of our sensory experiences and the manufacturer of our mental constructs – our subjective interpretation of reality.
Krishna, in the Bhagavad Gita, urges Arjuna to achieve "Citta-vritti-nirodha" – the calming or cessation of the mind's modifications. The essential idea here is to control and still the mind, freeing it from the constant fluctuations and perturbations brought on by sensory objects and desires. Krishna advocates for the attainment of a mental state where the mind is undisturbed by external influences, thus fostering clear judgment, equanimity, and inner peace.
This teaching aligns itself with the overarching theme of the Bhagavad Gita – the pursuit of Dharma (righteous duty) over personal desires and attachments, in order to attain liberation (Moksha). It is through this mastery and tranquility of the "citta" that an individual can achieve clarity and focus on their Dharma, irrespective of emotional disturbances or personal desires.
In wider Sanskrit literature, "citta" is often discussed in yogic and spiritual disciplines, where it is taught to be nurtured and mastered to achieve higher states of consciousness and spiritual enlightenment. It is suggested that with proper discipline and practice, one can gain control over their "citta" and attain freedom from suffering and the cycle of rebirth (Samsara).
In conclusion, "citta" is an intricate concept that entails more than just the mind or consciousness; it involves our conscious experiences and the resulting perception of reality. Its mastery and tranquilization are pivotal in realizing Dharma and attaining liberation, as taught in the Bhagavad Gita.