Verse 18-38

विषयेन्द्रियसंयोगाद्यत्तदग्रेऽमृतोपमम् |

परिणामे विषमिव तत्सुखं राजसं स्मृतम् || 38 ||

“The happiness that arises from the contact of the senses with their objects, which is like nectar in the beginning but appears as poison in the end, is considered to be of the passionate nature.” 

Commentary

Lord Krishna describes a type of happiness that arises from the interaction between the senses and their corresponding objects. This happiness is characterized by its initial sweetness, but ultimately leads to a sense of discontentment or even pain.

 

The happiness derived from sensory experiences, such as indulging in pleasurable sensations, acquiring material possessions, or fulfilling worldly desires, may initially seem delightful and enticing. It can give a temporary sense of pleasure and gratification, resembling the taste of nectar. However, as time passes and the consequences of these actions unfold, the happiness turns into disappointment, dissatisfaction, or even suffering. It becomes apparent that the pursuit of sensory pleasures alone does not lead to lasting fulfillment.

 

This type of happiness is categorized as rajasic, meaning it is driven by passion, attachment, and the pursuit of sensory gratification. It is transient in nature and often associated with the fluctuating states of the mind. The pleasure obtained from the sensory world may create a temporary sense of excitement and enjoyment, but it lacks the depth and lasting contentment found in higher spiritual experiences.

 

Lord Krishna highlights the impermanent and unsatisfying nature of this happiness. It may appear attractive and alluring at first, but its consequences and aftereffects resemble the experience of poison. It can lead to attachment, cravings, restlessness, and a perpetual cycle of seeking external stimuli for momentary pleasure.

 

In summary, Lord Krishna explains that the happiness derived from sensory experiences, which initially appears pleasing but ultimately leads to dissatisfaction or suffering, is considered to be of the passionate nature. It arises from the contact of the senses with their objects and is driven by attachment, desire, and the pursuit of transient pleasures. This type of happiness, known as rajasic happiness, lacks lasting fulfillment and often leaves one seeking for more.