दम्भो दर्पोऽभिमानश्च क्रोध: पारुष्यमेव च | अज्ञानं चाभिजातस्य पार्थ सम्पदमासुरीम् || 4 || |
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Ignorance—all these are qualities of those with demoniacal tendencies, O Partha.”
Lord Krishna describes the negative qualities that are characteristic of individuals with a demonic nature. He lists several vices that are detrimental to spiritual growth and hinder one’s progress on the path of righteousness.
The verse begins by mentioning “dambha” which refers to falsehood or deceit. It signifies the act of pretending to be something or someone that one is not, with the intention to deceive others. This is followed by “darpa” or arrogance, which is an excessive sense of self-importance and superiority over others. It is the feeling of being better than others and looking down upon them.
The next quality mentioned is “abhimān” or pride, which is an inflated sense of ego and self-worth. It leads to a sense of entitlement and a disregard for the well-being of others. “Krodha” or anger is the next vice, representing uncontrolled and destructive anger that can cloud one’s judgment and lead to harmful actions.
The verse also includes “parushyam” or harshness, which refers to a cruel and harsh attitude towards others. It is characterized by a lack of empathy and compassion. Lastly, Lord Krishna mentions “ajnāna” or ignorance, which is the lack of spiritual knowledge and understanding. It signifies a state of delusion and being disconnected from higher truths.
These qualities, according to Lord Krishna, are associated with individuals who have a demonic nature. They are antithetical to the divine qualities mentioned earlier and hinder one’s spiritual progress. Individuals dominated by these negative traits are driven by selfish desires, egoism, and ignorance. Their actions and behaviors are driven by materialistic and selfish motives, causing harm, and suffering to themselves and others.
By highlighting these negative qualities, Lord Krishna provides guidance on recognizing and avoiding such tendencies. He encourages individuals to cultivate divine qualities and transcend the lower nature associated with these vices. The verse serves as a reminder to cultivate virtues and strive for spiritual growth and self-realization.
This verse serves as a call to recognize and overcome negative tendencies to progress on the spiritual path and cultivate higher virtues. By doing so, one can align with their true nature and manifest divine qualities that lead to inner peace, harmony, and spiritual elevation