
18
CHAPTER
VERSE
27
रागी कर्मफलप्रेप्सुर्लुब्धो हिंसात्मकोऽशुचि: |
हर्षशोकान्वित: कर्ता राजस: परिकीर्तित: || 18.27 ||
Rāgī karma-phala-prepsur lubdho hiṁsātmako ’śuciḥ |
Harṣha-śokānvitaḥ kartā rājasaḥ parikīrtitaḥ ||
The performer who is attached to the fruits of his work, who is greedy, and who performs actions impelled by the desire for material gains, is termed to be of the nature of passion, O Arjuna.
Lesson:
Krishna explains to Arjuna that a performer who is driven by attachment to the fruits of their actions, characterized by greed and a desire for material gains, and who engages in actions motivated by selfish interests, is considered to be of the nature of passion. He identifies attachment (raga) to the fruits of one's actions as a defining trait of individuals influenced by the mode of passion. Such individuals are driven by a desire for personal gain and worldly success, seeking satisfaction through external achievements and possessions. Their actions are motivated by self-interest, aiming to secure material rewards and recognition.
Additionally, Krishna describes greed (lubdha) as another characteristic of individuals influenced by the mode of passion. Greed leads individuals to pursue wealth, power, and sensory pleasures without regard for ethical considerations or the welfare of others. It fosters a sense of insatiable desire and discontentment, fuelling the cycle of materialistic pursuits and worldly attachments.
Moreover, Krishna highlights the tendency of individuals influenced by the mode of passion to engage in actions tainted by impurity (ashuchi) and unethical conduct. Such individuals may resort to manipulative or exploitative means to achieve their objectives, disregarding moral principles and the well-being of others in the process.
Furthermore, Krishna mentions that the performer influenced by the mode of passion experiences a rollercoaster of emotions, characterized by alternating states of happiness (harsha) and distress (shoka). Their actions are driven by fluctuations in mood and temperament, resulting in inconsistency and instability in their behaviour.
This verse serves as a reminder of the detrimental effects of being driven by attachment, greed, and selfish desires in life. Individuals influenced by the mode of passion may experience temporary gratification and success, but their actions are ultimately rooted in materialism and egoism, leading to inner turmoil and spiritual stagnation.
In essence, this verse underscores the importance of transcending the mode of passion and cultivating a mindset characterized by detachment, selflessness, and ethical conduct. By relinquishing attachment to the fruits of actions and purifying the motives behind one's endeavours, individuals can rise above the limitations of materialism and attain spiritual growth and inner peace.