
18
CHAPTER
VERSE
37
यत्तदग्रे विषमिव परिणामेऽमृतोपमम् |
तत्सुखं सात्त्विकं प्रोक्तमात्मबुद्धिप्रसादजम् || 18.37 ||
Yattadagre viṣamiva pariṇāme'mṛtopamam |
Tatsukhaṁ sāttvikaṁ proktamātmabuddhiprasādajam ||
That which seems like poison at first, but tastes like nectar in the end, is said to be happiness in the mode of goodness, born of the pure intellect, Arjuna.
Lesson:
This verse talks about the nature of happiness (sukha) and its association with the mode of goodness (sattva). Krishna uses a metaphorical analogy to elucidate how certain experiences, initially perceived as bitter or challenging, ultimately lead to profound joy and peace when approached with a pure and enlightened intellect (atmabuddhi). He compares the experience of happiness to a substance that initially tastes like poison (viṣam) but transforms into nectar (amṛta) upon further reflection and understanding. He emphasizes that genuine happiness derived from the mode of goodness may appear daunting or difficult to attain at first, akin to the bitterness of poison, but ultimately reveals its sweetness and nourishment to those endowed with pure intellect and spiritual discernment.
The phrase "yat tad agre" refers to experiences or actions that may appear unpleasant or challenging initially. These experiences may involve sacrifices, renunciations, or challenges that demand resilience, courage, and perseverance. However, when approached with a clear and enlightened intellect, such experiences lead to profound happiness and spiritual peace, akin to the bliss of nectar.
Krishna identifies happiness in the mode of goodness (sattvika sukha) as arising from the pure intellect (atmabuddhi), which is endowed with qualities such as clarity, wisdom, and discernment. Such happiness transcends the transient pleasures derived from material pursuits and sensory gratification, offering lasting contentment and inner peace.
Furthermore, Krishna's teachings highlight the transformative power of perception and attitude in shaping one's experience of happiness. By cultivating a positive mindset, resilience, and spiritual insight, individuals can navigate life's challenges with grace and emerge victorious, experiencing profound joy and peace in the process.
This verse serves as a profound reminder of the inherent potential for growth and transformation embedded within life's adversities and trials. It encourages individuals to embrace challenges as opportunities for spiritual evolution and self-discovery, trusting in the guidance of the pure intellect (atmabuddhi) to navigate the complexities of existence and uncover the boundless reservoirs of happiness within.
In essence, this verse from the Bhagavad Gita underscores the transformative nature of happiness derived from the mode of goodness (sattva). It inspires seekers to cultivate a pure intellect, spiritual discernment, and positive outlook, enabling them to perceive the sweetness of joy amidst life's bitter experiences and attain lasting satisfaction and inner peace.