सर्वद्वारेषु देहेऽस्मिन्प्रकाश उपजायते | ज्ञानं यदा तदा विद्याद्विवृद्धं सत्त्वमित्युत || 11 || लोभ: प्रवृत्तिरारम्भ: कर्मणामशम: स्पृहा | रजस्येतानि जायन्ते विवृद्धे भरतर्षभ || 12 || अप्रकाशोऽप्रवृत्तिश्च प्रमादो मोह एव च | तमस्येतानि जायन्ते विवृद्धे कुरुनन्दन || 13 || |
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“Greed, activity, restlessness, and desire are the manifestations of rajas, the mode of passion, which arise when it is predominant, O best of the Bharatas.”
“Ignorance, inertia, negligence, and delusion are the manifestations of tamas, the mode of ignorance, which arise when it is predominant, O son of Kuru.”
Commentary These verses describe the three gunās or modes of material nature: sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance). The body is regarded as a microcosm where these gunās manifest and influence one’s thoughts, actions, and behavior.
On the other hand, rajas represents the mode of passion and activity. It brings forth desires, ambition, restlessness, and a constant pursuit of worldly achievements. The mind becomes attached to the results of actions and seeks fulfillment through external means.
Tamas, the mode of ignorance, is associated with inertia, delusion, and negligence. It clouds the mind with confusion, laziness, and a lack of discernment. One becomes unaware of higher truths and is prone to making unwise choices.
These verses highlight the importance of self-awareness and understanding the gunās. By recognizing the prevalent gunā within oneself, individuals can gain insight into their thoughts, tendencies, and behaviors. This knowledge empowers them to cultivate sattva and transcend the influence of rajas and tamas. By embracing sattva, one can overcome the restless desires of rajas and the delusions of tamas, ultimately leading to self-realization and liberation.