Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 16.20

“Born in demonic wombs, deluded birth after birth, they never attain Me, O Kaunteya, and fall into lower states.”
Key Teaching: Demonic beings, deluded, never reach Krishna and fall lower.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that demonic beings, born in demonic wombs and deluded birth after birth, never attain Him and fall into lower states. This verse, continuing 16.19, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna warns of spiritual failure, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes delusion, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he highlights bondage, and Karma Yoga, as he addresses rebirth, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s downfall (1.3–11) reflects this fate, contrasting Arjuna’s path (1.28–46). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.9) and Karma Yoga (2.22), emphasizing karmic descent. Krishna builds on demonic rebirth (16.19), stressing their failure.

Philosophically, the verse underscores delusion’s consequences, a theme refined with teachings on karma (2.22). Arjuna’s path is clarified by seeking Krishna to avoid downfall. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga warns against spiritual failure. The verse connects to teachings on liberation (15.47).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s descent, where delusion prevents liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to seek divine connection, aligning with moksha. The warning resonates with Arjuna’s spiritual quest.