
18
CHAPTER
VERSE
21
पृथक्त्वेन तु यज्ज्ञानं नानाभावान्पृथग्विधान् |
वेत्ति सर्वेषु भूतेषु तज्ज्ञानं विद्धि राजसम् || 18.21 ||
Pṛthaktvena tu yajjñānaṁ nānābhāvān pṛthagvidhān |
Vetti sarveṣhu bhūteṣhu tajjñānaṁ viddhi rājasam ||
That knowledge by which one sees the one indestructible reality in all beings, undivided among the divided—that knowledge you should understand to be in the mode of passion.
Lesson:
The knowledge characterized by divisiveness and multiplicity, where one perceives various entities as separate and distinct from each other, should be understood as belonging to the mode of passion. Krishna contrasts this form of knowledge with the higher wisdom that transcends dualities and perceives the underlying unity in all beings. True knowledge, according to Krishna, is the realization of the one indestructible reality (Brahman) manifesting in diverse forms. It is the ability to discern the inherent oneness amidst the apparent diversity of creation.
The term "pṛthaktvena" refers to divisiveness or fragmentation, where things are perceived as separate and disconnected from each other. In contrast, true knowledge (jnana) entails recognizing the underlying unity and interconnectedness of all beings, transcending the limitations of dualistic perception.
Krishna emphasizes that genuine wisdom is characterized by the realization of the divine essence pervading all existence. It is the ability to perceive the same divine consciousness shining forth in every living being, irrespective of their external differences in form, species, or status.
Furthermore, Krishna's teachings highlight the transformative power of transcendent knowledge. By cultivating the vision of unity and interconnectedness, individuals can overcome divisive tendencies and cultivate compassion, empathy, and reverence towards all living beings.
This verse underscores the importance of cultivating a holistic and inclusive worldview rooted in spiritual wisdom. It encourages seekers to transcend narrow-mindedness and egoic identification with individuality, embracing the profound truth of unity in diversity.
In essence, this verse from the Bhagavad Gita elucidates the nature of knowledge influenced by the mode of passion (rajas). It emphasizes the importance of transcending divisive perceptions and realizing the underlying unity in all beings as the essence of true wisdom. Through the cultivation of such higher knowledge, individuals can attain spiritual liberation and live in harmony with the interconnected web of existence.