गुणानेतानतीत्य त्रीन्देही देहसमुद्भवान् | जन्ममृत्युजरादु:खैर्विमुक्तोऽमृतमश्रुते || 20 || |
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“The embodied soul, transcending these three modes of material nature, is freed from birth, death, old age, and their associated sufferings, and attains the nectar of immortality.”
Commentary
Lord Krishna describes the ultimate liberation of the embodied soul by transcending the three modes of material nature (gunā) – goodness (sattva), passion (rajas), and ignorance (tamas). The verse emphasizes that by rising above these modes, the soul becomes liberated from the cycle of birth and death, along with the sufferings of old age and disease, and attains the state of immortality.
The human body is subject to the influences of these three modes of material nature, which manifest in various ways, such as qualities, tendencies, desires, and actions. Individuals are often driven by the influences of these modes and experience the resulting pleasures and pains, attachments and aversions, and ups and downs of life.
However, when the embodied soul realizes its true nature and transcends the modes of material nature, it becomes free from the limitations and afflictions associated with the material existence. By detaching itself from the temporary identification with the body and mind, the soul realizes its eternal nature and its connection with the divine.
This transcendence is achieved through spiritual practices, self-realization, and a shift in consciousness. It involves understanding that the material world, with its changing circumstances and dualities, is temporary and subject to the laws of nature. By rising above the influence of the modes, the soul becomes established in its true spiritual identity, beyond birth and death.
The verse also mentions that the liberated soul attains the nectar of immortality (amrita). This refers to the eternal nature of the soul, which is not subject to the limitations of time, decay, or death. It is the state of eternal existence, knowledge, and bliss.
By recognizing the temporary nature of the material world and identifying with the eternal spiritual nature, individuals can free themselves from the cycle of repeated birth and death and attain the goal of spiritual liberation and immortality.