Answer
Yes, the two verses are closely related.
By nature, the soul is simply a witness and observer. However, due to identification with the body, we think:
"I am the doer."
"I am the knower."
This mistaken identification is called bewilderment at the level of false ego.
One should understand that within our subtle system there are different layers—mind, intelligence, and ego. Each of these creates its own demands, impressions, and confusions.
Therefore, when thoughts arise in the mind, that is not the end of the story. We should not immediately identify ourselves with those thoughts and become discouraged:
"Oh, I am like this."
No. You are not those thoughts.
Bewilderment begins when we accept the bodily conception of life and think:
"I am this body."
The only real counteraction is to repeatedly remember the fundamental truth:
"I am not this body. I am a spirit soul. I am the eternal servant of Guru and Kṛṣṇa."
Continue repeating and acting on that understanding.
As this spiritual identity becomes stronger, we become freed from mental harassment. Otherwise, it is very difficult to overcome.
