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18

CHAPTER 

VERSE

60

स्वभावजेन कौन्तेय निबद्ध: स्वेन कर्मणा |
कर्तुं नेच्छसि यन्मोहात्करिष्यस्यवशोऽपि तत् || 18.60 ||

Svabhāvajena kaunteya nibaddhaḥ svena karmaṇā |
Kartuṁ nechchhasi yanmohātkariṣyasyavaśo'pi tat ||

O son of Kunti, bound by your own innate nature and activity, which arises from delusion, you are powerless to refrain from doing what you have resolved to do, even against your will.

Lesson:

Individuals are bound by their innate nature and the activities that arise from it. Due to delusion (moha), one feels compelled to perform actions according to their inherent disposition, even if they may wish otherwise.

Krishna uses the term "svabhavajena" to denote actions that are prompted by one's innate nature. Each individual possesses a unique combination of qualities, tendencies, and predispositions, known as their svabhava. These innate characteristics influence one's thoughts, desires, and actions, shaping their behaviour and decisions in life.

Furthermore, Krishna highlights the role of delusion (moha) in influencing human behaviour. Delusion arises from ignorance and attachment to the material world, clouding one's judgment and causing them to act against their own best interests. Despite harbouring contrary desires, individuals are often driven to act in accordance with their innate nature, under the sway of delusion.

Krishna's teachings in this verse emphasize the principle of self-awareness and self-understanding. By recognizing their inherent nature and the forces that compel them to act, individuals can gain insight into their patterns of behaviour and make conscious choices aligned with their higher values and spiritual aspirations.

Moreover, Krishna's words offer solace to Arjuna, who is grappling with inner conflict and moral dilemmas on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Krishna reassures Arjuna that despite his inner turmoil, he is not solely responsible for his actions. Bound by his innate nature and the influence of delusion, Arjuna finds himself compelled to act according to his svabhava.

This verse also underscores the principle of karma yoga, the path of selfless action performed in accordance with divine will. By surrendering the fruits of one's actions to the divine and acting selflessly in the service of humanity, individuals can transcend the bondage of karma and attain spiritual liberation.

In essence, this verse from the Bhagavad Gita provides profound insights into the nature of human behaviour and the factors that influence it. It encourages seekers to cultivate self-awareness, discernment, and detachment from the sway of delusion, thereby empowering them to make conscious choices aligned with their spiritual evolution and ultimate well-being.

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