Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 14.22

“Krishna said: He who does not hate illumination, activity, or delusion when they arise, nor longs for them when they cease, O Pandava,”
Key Teaching: A transcendent person neither hates nor desires the gunas’ effects.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Guna Traya Vibhaga Yoga, Jnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes one who has transcended the gunas as neither hating illumination (sattva), activity (rajas), or delusion (tamas) when they arise, nor longing for them when they cease. This verse, continuing 14.21, addresses Arjuna’s question (2.9, 14.21). The themes of guidance, as Krishna describes transcendence, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, Guna Traya Vibhaga Yoga, as he explains gunas’ transcendence, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s struggles (1.28–46) contrast with Duryodhana’s attachments (1.3–11). Krishna’s teaching supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Jnana Yoga (13.29), guiding to detachment.

Philosophically, this verse addresses equanimity beyond gunas, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on detachment (6.7). Arjuna’s understanding is deepened by Krishna’s guidance on transcendence. The themes of Guna Traya Vibhaga Yoga and Jnana Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on transcending gunas for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their detached clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s equanimity, where transcendence avoids attachment. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine detachment, aligning with liberation.