Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 16.21

“Triple is the gate of hell, destructive of the self—lust, anger, greed; therefore, one should abandon these three.”
Key Teaching: Lust, anger, and greed lead to hell; abandon them.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna identifies lust, anger, and greed as the triple gate to hell, destructive to the self, urging their abandonment. This verse, continuing 16.20, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna warns of destructive traits, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he highlights liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s greed and anger (1.3–11) lead to his downfall, contrasting Arjuna’s restraint (1.28–46). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.9), emphasizing overcoming delusion, and builds on demonic descent (16.20). Krishna pinpoints these root vices.

Philosophically, the verse identifies core obstacles to liberation, a theme refined with teachings on desire (3.37). Arjuna’s path is clarified by abandoning these traits. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through discipline. The verse connects to teachings on controlling desires (2.71).

Sanjaya’s narration (18.74–78) ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s destructive paths, where vices lead to ruin. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to renounce lust, anger, and greed, aligning with moksha. The warning resonates with Arjuna’s need to uphold righteousness.