Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 16.7

“Demonic beings do not know what to do or avoid; purity, good conduct, and truth are not found in them.”
Key Teaching: Demonic beings lack discernment, purity, and truth.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes demonic beings as ignorant of proper actions or restraints, lacking purity, good conduct, and truth. This verse, continuing 16.6, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna details demonic traits, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he warns of bondage, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s actions (1.3–11) reflect this ignorance, contrasting Arjuna’s discernment (1.28–46). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (14.8), highlighting tamasic ignorance, and builds on demonic nature (16.6). Krishna elaborates their flaws.

Philosophically, the verse underscores demonic ignorance, a theme refined with teachings on tamas (14.8). Arjuna’s path is clarified by avoiding such ignorance. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through discernment. The verse connects to teachings on truth (16.2).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s moral failure, where ignorance binds. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to seek purity, aligning with moksha. The description resonates with Duryodhana’s unrighteous conduct.