त्रिविधं नरकस्येदं द्वारं नाशनमात्मन: | काम: क्रोधस्तथा लोभस्तस्मादेतत्त्रयं त्यजेत् || 21 || |
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Lord Krishna identifies three destructive tendencies or gates that lead individuals towards self-destructive paths and result in suffering. These three gates are desire (kāma), anger (krodha), and greed (lobha). Lord Krishna advises that one should renounce or give up these tendencies in order to avoid falling into the cycle of suffering.
Desire (Kāma): Desire refers to uncontrolled and excessive cravings for sensual pleasures, material possessions, and worldly enjoyments. When one becomes attached to desires and seeks gratification solely through external means, it leads to discontentment, restlessness, and further entanglement in the materialistic world. Such attachment to desires can keep individuals trapped in a cycle of unfulfilled cravings and dissatisfaction.
Anger (Krodha): Anger arises when one’s desires are obstructed or unfulfilled. It is an intense emotional reaction characterized by hostility, aggression, and a lack of control. Anger clouds one’s judgment, impairs reasoning, and leads to harmful actions and negative consequences. It not only harms others but also creates inner turmoil, damaging one’s own well-being and peace of mind.
Greed (Lobha): Greed is an insatiable desire for acquiring and possessing more wealth, power, and possessions than what is necessary for sustenance and well-being. It is the excessive attachment to material wealth and the constant craving for accumulation. Greed blinds individuals to the needs of others, promotes selfishness, and fuels unethical behavior. It breeds discontentment and a never-ending pursuit of material gains, often at the expense of one’s moral values and spiritual growth.
Lord Krishna advises individuals to renounce these three destructive tendencies. Renunciation here does not imply the complete abandonment of desires, anger, and material possessions, but rather cultivating control, moderation, and detachment from them. By developing self-discipline, cultivating contentment, and seeking spiritual growth, one can overcome the negative effects of these tendencies.
The verse highlights the importance of self-awareness and self-control in leading a virtuous and fulfilling life. It encourages individuals to examine their desires, manage their anger, and cultivate a spirit of generosity and detachment. By transcending these destructive tendencies, one can attain inner peace, spiritual growth, and liberation from suffering.
Ultimately, the verse teaches that by renouncing desire, anger, and greed, individuals can break free from the cycle of self-destructive actions and attain a state of inner harmony and spiritual well-being.