य: शास्त्रविधिमुत्सृज्य वर्तते कामकारत: | न स सिद्धिमवाप्नोति न सुखं न परां गतिम् || 23 || |
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Lord Krishna highlights the consequences of disregarding the instructions and principles laid down in the scriptures and following one’s own desires and whims instead. He states that such a person does not achieve success, happiness, or the ultimate goal of life.
The scriptures, such as the Vedas and other sacred texts, contain guidelines and principles for righteous living, moral conduct, and spiritual growth. They provide a framework for individuals to lead a balanced and purposeful life, guiding them towards spiritual realization and the attainment of higher states of consciousness.
However, an individual who disregards these scriptural injunctions and acts solely according to their own desires and whims is called “kamakaratah” – one who pursues their desires. Such a person is driven by their unchecked desires and lacks the restraint and guidance provided by the scriptures.
Lord Krishna explains that by following a path disconnected from the wisdom and teachings of the scriptures, one does not attain success (siddhi), which refers to the accomplishment of spiritual and material goals. Without the guidance of scriptural wisdom, their actions become unfocused and lack the necessary foundation for true success.
Such a person does not experience true happiness (sukham) because their desires are often insatiable and driven by external factors. They may chase temporary pleasures but fail to find lasting contentment and inner peace.
Moreover, the person who rejects the scriptural principles and acts whimsically does not attain the supreme destination (param gatim), which refers to the ultimate goal of self-realization and union with the divine. Their actions are not aligned with the higher purpose of life and lack the spiritual depth required for transcending the cycle of birth and death.
In summary, this verse emphasizes the importance of adhering to the teachings and guidelines of the scriptures. By following the path prescribed by the scriptures, one gains the necessary wisdom, moral foundation, and spiritual direction to achieve success, experience genuine happiness, and ultimately reach the supreme goal of self-realization. Disregarding scriptural injunctions and acting solely on personal desires leads to a lack of fulfillment and prevents one from attaining higher states of consciousness and spiritual growth.