Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 14.7

“Rajas, born of desire and passion, binds the soul through attachment to action and its fruits, O Kaunteya.”
Key Teaching: Rajas binds through attachment to action and fruits.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes rajas as born of desire and passion, binding the soul through attachment to action and its fruits. This verse, continuing 14.6, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna explains rajas, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he highlights bondage, and Karma Yoga, as he addresses action, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s ambition (1.3–11) reflects rajasic bondage, contrasting Arjuna’s restraint (1.28–46). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.9) and Karma Yoga (2.47), detailing rajas’ effects. Krishna builds on sattva (14.6), contrasting with rajas.

Philosophically, the verse reveals rajas’ binding nature, a theme refined with teachings on desire (3.37). Arjuna’s path is clarified by transcending rajasic attachment. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation beyond action. The verse connects to teachings on selfless action (2.47).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s passion, where action binds. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to transcend rajas, aligning with moksha. The description resonates with Arjuna’s battlefield struggle.