इच्छा द्वेष: सुखं दु:खं सङ्घातश्चेतना धृति: | एतत्क्षेत्रं समासेन सविकारमुदाहृतम् || 7 || |
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“Desire and aversion, pleasure and pain, the sense of self, awareness and steadfastness of mind; all these constitute the field of experience, summarized concisely.”
Commentary
Lord Krishna describes the components of the “kshetra” or the field of activities—the physical and mental space where life unfolds. The verse enumerates seven fundamental aspects that constitute this field:
Desire and aversion (Ichcha Dvesha): These are the attractions and repulsions that arise within us towards various objects, experiences, or situations. Desire is the craving for something we perceive as desirable, while aversion is the feeling of avoidance or dislike towards something.
Pleasure and pain (Sukha Dukha): These represent the sensations and emotions that we encounter in life. Pleasure refers to the experiences that bring us joy, happiness, or contentment, while pain encompasses the experiences of suffering, sorrow, or distress.
Sense of self (Sanghata): This refers to the identification with our individual self or ego. It is the notion of “I” or “me” that distinguishes our subjective experience from others. It includes our thoughts, beliefs, memories, and the perception of our personal identity.
Consciousness (Chethana): The awareness or the conscious aspect that allows us to experience and perceive.
Steadfastness of mind (Dhriti): This aspect pertains to the ability to maintain focus, stability, and resilience of the mind. It represents the strength to remain steadfast and composed amidst the ever-changing experiences of life.
All these elements together constitute the field of experience (Kshetra), which refers to the entirety of human existence and the interactions between the individual and the external world. The term “savikāram” indicates that these aspects are subject to modification, emphasizing the impermanent and ever-changing nature of the material world. This concise summary reminds us of the diverse aspects that shape our experiences and highlights the need for self-awareness and understanding in navigating the complexities of life.