Verse 18-24

यत्तुकामेप्सुना कर्म साहङ्कारेण वा पुन: |

क्रियते बहुलायासं तद्राजसमुदाहृतम् || 24 ||

“But that action which is performed with desire for results or with egoistic motives, and accompanied by great effort, is said to be in the mode of passion (rajas).”
 
Commentary

Lord Krishna explains the nature of actions performed in the mode of passion (rajas gunā). He describes the characteristics of such actions as follows:

 

Kāmepsunā : The action is driven by desires and a strong longing for specific outcomes. There is a sense of attachment and craving for the fulfillment of personal desires and preferences.

 

Sāhankārena vā: The action is performed with a sense of ego or self-centeredness. There is an identification with the doer and a desire for personal recognition, achievement, or superiority.

 

Kriyate bahulāyāsaṁ: The action is accompanied by great effort, exertion, and struggle. There is a tendency to engage in excessive activity, busyness, and striving to achieve desired results.

 

Actions performed in the mode of passion are characterized by a strong attachment to personal desires, a sense of egoism, and a relentless pursuit of specific outcomes. Individuals driven by the mode of passion often experience restlessness, anxiety, and a constant need for validation and success.

 

The focus of such actions is on fulfilling personal ambitions, satisfying desires, and gaining material rewards or recognition. There is a tendency to engage in excessive activity, often leading to physical and mental exhaustion.

 

While actions in the mode of passion may yield temporary gains and achievements, they are also accompanied by greater efforts and attachments. The intense desire for specific outcomes and the egoistic motives behind such actions create a sense of restlessness and perpetual striving.

 

It is important to note that actions in the mode of passion are not inherently negative or sinful. They are simply driven by personal desires, ego, and a need for external validation. However, when actions are solely guided by these factors, they can lead to imbalance, inner turmoil, and a lack of spiritual growth.

 

In summary, actions performed in the mode of passion are characterized by strong desires, egoistic motives, and intense efforts. They are driven by personal ambitions and a need for external validation. While they may yield temporary gains, they can also lead to restlessness and a perpetual cycle of striving for desired outcomes.