Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 16.18

“Egoistic, violent, arrogant, lustful, angry, envious, they hate Me in their own and others’ bodies.”
Key Teaching: Demonic beings hate Krishna due to ego and negative traits.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna states that demonic beings, egoistic, violent, arrogant, lustful, angry, and envious, hate Him in their own and others’ bodies. This verse, continuing 16.17, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna describes demonic hatred, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes delusion, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he warns of bondage, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s enmity (1.3–11) reflects this hatred, contrasting Arjuna’s devotion (1.28–46). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.9), exposing negative traits, and builds on hypocritical acts (16.17). Krishna highlights their rejection of divinity.

Philosophically, the verse links ego to divine rejection, a theme refined with teachings on humility (6.14). Arjuna’s path is clarified by embracing devotion over hatred. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga warns against spiritual downfall. The verse connects to teachings on divine presence (15.15).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s enmity, where ego breeds hatred. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to cultivate devotion, aligning with moksha. The description resonates with Arjuna’s need for divine alignment.