First, control is necessary to develop a lifestyle that does not distract from the goal, freedom through knowledge. Second, control is necessary to understand well what the teacher teaches, and what the means of knowledge of the scriptures (śabda pramāṇa) means.

To control one’s own inner instrument (antaḥkaraṇa), a sufficient dose of calmness is necessary. The literal meaning of śama is therefore calmness, tranquility. In Vedānta, the word śama has evolved into control of thoughts and feelings.

In order to understand the necessity of calmness, there is a qualification for an aspirant in this connection that precedes śamanvita, namely praśāntacitta, pacification of the mind. First, cultivate peace (śānta), whereby control becomes much easier. Control and calmness go hand in hand. A controlled mind yields the necessary.

Note: A peaceful atmosphere in the mind is nice, but it is not freedom. The goal of a peaceful mind is to obtain sufficient sattva to remove ignorance, so that knowledge can shine forth.