Verse 18-21

पृथक्त्वेन तु यज्ज्ञानं नानाभावान्पृथग्विधान् |

वेत्ति सर्वेषु भूतेषु तज्ज्ञानं विद्धि राजसम् || 21 ||

“But that knowledge which sees various existences as separate entities, distinct from one another, in all beings, know that knowledge to be in the mode of passion.”
 
Commentary

Lord Krishna describes the nature of knowledge in the mode of passion (rajas gunā). He explains that this type of knowledge perceives various existences as separate and distinct entities within all beings.


Perception of Separate Existences: Knowledge in the mode of passion sees the diversity and multiplicity of beings as distinct and separate from each other. It emphasizes the differences, individuality, and variety in existence. This perspective tends to focus on external differentiations such as physical appearances, species, identities, and variations in attributes.

 

Divisions and Fragmentation: The knowledge influenced by the mode of passion perceives the world in a fragmented manner. It tends to categorize and compartmentalize beings based on their characteristics, attributes, and differences. This leads to a sense of separateness, competition, and the perception of “us” versus “them.”

 

Lack of Unity and Oneness: The knowledge in the mode of passion fails to recognize the underlying unity and interconnectedness of all beings. Instead, it reinforces the idea of separateness and reinforces the egoistic tendencies that create divisions and conflicts among individuals and groups.

 

The verse indicates that this type of knowledge, which perceives various existences as separate and distinct, is considered to be in the mode of passion. It is characterized by a fragmented view of reality and a focus on individual differences rather than recognizing the underlying unity of all existence.

 

This verse highlights the nature of knowledge influenced by the mode of passion. It perceives the world in a fragmented way, emphasizing separateness and individual differences. This perspective lacks the recognition of the interconnectedness and unity that underlies all beings. It is important to cultivate knowledge in the mode of goodness, which sees the oneness and unity in all existence, transcending divisions and fostering harmony and compassion.