Verse 18-26

मुक्तसङ्गोऽनहंवादी धृत्युत्साहसमन्वित: |

सिद्ध्यसिद्ध्योर्निर्विकार: कर्ता सात्त्विक उच्यते || 26 ||

“One who is free from attachment, non-egotistical, endowed with determination and enthusiasm, unaffected by success or failure, is called a person of the mode of goodness (sattva).”
 
Commentary

Lord Krishna describes the qualities and characteristics of a person who performs actions in the mode of goodness (sattva gunā). Let’s explore the meaning of each line:

 

Mukta-sango: One who is free from attachment. This refers to a person who is not overly attached to material possessions, relationships, or outcomes. They have a sense of detachment and do not cling to worldly attachments.

 

A‘nahaṁ-vādī: One who is non-egotistical. Such an individual is free from egoistic tendencies and does not boast or claim credit for their actions. They perform their duties without seeking personal recognition or validation.

 

Dhriti-utsāha-samanvitah: Endowed with determination and enthusiasm. This person possesses the qualities of perseverance, steadfastness, and a positive attitude. They are committed to their tasks and maintain enthusiasm, even in the face of challenges or obstacles. Siddhy-asiddhyoh nirvikāraḥ: Unaffected by success or failure. This person remains equanimous and unaffected by the outcomes of their actions. Whether they achieve success or encounter failure, they maintain a balanced state of mind without becoming excessively elated or dejected.

 

People who possess these qualities are considered to be in the mode of goodness (sattva gunā). They are characterized by their balanced and detached approach towards life and actions. They perform their duties with sincerity, dedication, and a sense of responsibility, without being driven by personal desires or attachment to results.

 

Being free from attachment and ego, they act selflessly for the welfare of others and the greater good. They exhibit qualities of inner strength, determination, and enthusiasm, which enable them to overcome challenges and persevere in their endeavors.

 

Additionally, they remain unperturbed by the outcomes of their actions, understanding that success and failure are temporary and do not define their true worth. Their focus lies on performing their duties with integrity and dedication, rather than being solely outcome-oriented.

 

It is important to note that cultivating these qualities and performing actions in the mode of goodness is considered beneficial for one’s spiritual growth and overall well-being. It leads to a sense of inner peace, clarity of mind, and harmony with oneself and the world.

 

In summary, people in the mode of goodness are characterized by their detachment, humility, determination, enthusiasm, and equanimity towards success and failure. They perform their actions selflessly, without egoistic tendencies, and remain focused on their duties rather than being attached to the outcomes. Such individuals contribute positively to their own growth and the well-being of others.