“This I have gained today; this desire I shall fulfill; this wealth is mine, and more will be mine hereafter.”
Key Teaching: Demonic beings revel in wealth and unfulfilled desires.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes demonic beings boasting, “This I have gained; this desire I shall fulfill; this wealth is mine, and more will come.” This verse, continuing 16.12, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna exposes demonic delusion, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes ignorance, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he warns of bondage, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s boasting (1.3–11) mirrors this mindset, contrasting Arjuna’s humility (1.28–46). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.9), critiquing egodriven thoughts, and builds on demonic greed (16.12). Krishna highlights their delusional confidence.
Philosophically, the verse exposes ego’s futility, a theme refined with teachings on humility (6.14). Arjuna’s path is clarified by rejecting such pride. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga warns against material attachment. The verse connects to teachings on ego (2.71).
Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s delusion, where pride binds. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to transcend ego, aligning with moksha. The mindset resonates with Arjuna’s need for humility in duty.
Shloka 18.78“Wherever there is Krishna, the Lord of Yoga, and Arjuna, the archer, there is…
Shloka 18.77“And remembering the most wonderful form of Hari, great is my astonishment, O King,…
Shloka 18.76“O King, remembering this wonderful, holy dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, I rejoice again…
Shloka 18.75“By Vyasa’s grace, I have heard this supreme, most secret yoga, declared by Krishna,…
Shloka 18.74“Sanjaya said: Thus have I heard this wonderful dialogue between Vasudeva and the greatsouled…
Shloka 18.73“Arjuna said: My delusion is destroyed, my memory restored, by Your grace, O Achyuta;…