“An agent who is passionate, desiring fruits, greedy, harmful, impure, swayed by joy and sorrow, is called rajasic.”
Key Teaching: A rajasic agent is passionate, greedy, and swayed by emotions.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes a rajasic agent as passionate, desiring fruits, greedy, harmful, impure, and swayed by joy and sorrow. This verse, continuing 18.26, addresses Arjuna’s quest for understanding (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna critiques the rajasic agent, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he defines the agent, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, and Karma Yoga, as he addresses action, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s restraint (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s greed (1.3–11). This teaching aligns with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Jnana Yoga (14.7), warning against rajasic traits. Krishna builds on teachings about rajas (14.7, 17.12), highlighting its flaws.
Philosophically, this verse critiques emotional instability, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on rajas (14.7). Arjuna’s path is clarified by avoiding rajasic traits. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Karma Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on balanced action for liberation.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their cautionary clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s passion, where rajasic agents bind. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine restraint, aligning with liberation.
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