“That intellect which, enveloped in darkness, takes adharma for dharma and all things pervertedly, is tamasic, O Partha.”
Key Teaching: Tamasic intellect mistakes adharma for dharma, seeing things perversely.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Jnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes tamasic intellect as enveloped in darkness, mistaking adharma for dharma and perceiving things perversely. This verse, continuing 18.31, addresses Arjuna’s quest for understanding (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna critiques tamasic intellect, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he analyzes intellect, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s righteousness (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s perversion (1.3–11). This teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (14.8) and Karma Yoga (2.47), warning against perverse understanding. Krishna builds on teachings about tamas (14.8, 17.13), highlighting its intellectual flaws.
Philosophically, this verse critiques perverse judgment, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on tamas (14.8). Arjuna’s path is clarified by avoiding tamasic distortion. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Jnana Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on true wisdom for liberation.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their cautionary clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s ignorance, where tamasic intellect binds. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine truth, aligning with liberation.
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