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18

CHAPTER 

VERSE

34

यया तु धर्मकामार्थान्धृत्या धारयतेऽर्जुन |
प्रसङ्गेन फलाकाङ् क्षी धृति: सा पार्थ राजसी || 18.34 ||

Yayā tu dharmakāmārthāndhṛtyā dhārayate 'rjuna |
Prasaṅgena phalākāṅkṣī dhṛtiḥ sā pārtha rājasī ||

But that determination by which one holds fast to duty, pleasure, and wealth, desiring fruit, O Arjuna, and considering this to be the highest, such determination is in the mode of passion.

Lesson:

Determination driven by the desire for duty, pleasure, and wealth, with an expectation of rewards, is considered to be in the mode of passion. Krishna elaborates on the characteristics of determination influenced by the mode of passion. Such determination is motivated by the pursuit of material desires, including adherence to one's duties (dharma), seeking sensual pleasures (kama), and accumulating wealth (artha). Individuals exhibiting this type of determination are driven by the anticipation of rewards and benefits derived from their actions.

The term "phalakankshi" denotes the desire for fruit or results. Individuals influenced by the mode of passion are primarily concerned with the outcomes of their actions, seeking personal gain and gratification. Their determination is conditioned by the expectation of rewards, leading them to pursue activities that yield tangible benefits and material success.

Krishna uses the metaphor of holding fast to duty, pleasure, and wealth to illustrate the nature of determination in the mode of passion. Individuals guided by this type of determination prioritize worldly pursuits and external achievements, often at the expense of spiritual growth and higher values.

Furthermore, Krishna cautions Arjuna against considering such determination as the highest or most noble. While determination driven by passion may lead to worldly success and accomplishments, it lacks the depth and spiritual significance associated with selfless devotion and adherence to righteous principles.

This verse underscores the importance of discerning the quality of determination governing one's actions. While determination in the mode of passion may yield temporary rewards and accomplishments, it ultimately binds individuals to the cycle of material existence and reinforces their attachment to worldly desires.

In essence, Krishna's teachings in this verse highlight the need for cultivating determination guided by higher values and spiritual principles. True determination stems from a sense of duty, righteousness, and selflessness, transcending the narrow confines of personal ambition and desires. By aligning one's actions with the dictates of dharma and performing selfless service, individuals can elevate their consciousness and attain spiritual liberation.

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