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đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌗đ‘Œĩđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌗𑍀𑌤𑌾 đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŖ - đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œļ𑍋đ‘ŒŊđ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ

The thirteenth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, titled 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œ­đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œƒ (Kshetra-Kshetrajna Vibhaga đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—), opens with the echo of war drums on the fields of 𑌕𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰. Here, in the heart of the 𑌮𑌹𑌾𑌭𑍍𑌹𑌾𑌰𑌤 epic, đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖ and 𑌅𑌰𑍍𑌜𑍁𑌨 continue their profound dialogue, surrounded by the armies of the đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌂𑌡đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌃 and 𑌕𑍌𑌰đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌃. The battlefield is more than a place of conflict; it is a stage for timeless questions about life, identity, and purpose. Amid the tension and uncertainty, đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖ invites 𑌅𑌰𑍍𑌜𑍁𑌨 to look beyond the immediate chaos and explore the deeper layers of existence.

In the previous chapters, especially the twelfth, the Gita explored the path of devotion-𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ-đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—-emphasizing love, surrender, and the relationship between the devotee and the divine. đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖ revealed how unwavering devotion can lead to liberation, and how the heart's longing for the eternal can transform even the most ordinary life. Now, the conversation shifts gears. The focus turns inward, toward the nature of the self and the body, the field and the knower of the field.

This chapter's central theme is the distinction between the physical body (𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰) and the conscious self (𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞). đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖ explains that the body, with all its sensations, memories, and desires, is like a field-ever-changing, subject to birth and decay. The true self, the 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾, is the knower of this field: silent, aware, untouched by time. Through vivid metaphors and clear reasoning, đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖ urges 𑌅𑌰𑍍𑌜𑍁𑌨 to recognize this difference, much like a person realizing they are not the clothes they wear or the roles they play.

The chapter also explores what it means to truly know oneself. It discusses qualities like humility, patience, and honesty, which prepare the mind for self-knowledge. đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖ describes the ultimate wisdom as seeing the same divine presence in all beings, regardless of their outward differences. This vision dissolves the boundaries that separate us, inviting a sense of unity and compassion that transcends the battlefield.

Looking ahead, the next chapter will dive deeper into the three fundamental qualities-đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖs-that shape human nature and behavior. But before that, đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖ lays the groundwork here, helping 𑌅𑌰𑍍𑌜𑍁𑌨 (and all of us) understand the difference between what we experience and the one who experiences. It is a call to wake up to our own awareness, to see ourselves not just as actors in the world, but as the silent witness behind it all.

𑌓𑌂 đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑍇 𑌨𑌮𑌃
𑌅đ‘ŒĨ đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œļ𑍋đ‘ŒŊđ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œ­đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œƒ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌓𑌂 - sacred syllable
đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 - auspicious, revered
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑍇 - to the Supreme Self
𑌨𑌮𑌃 - salutations
𑌅đ‘ŒĨ - now, thus
đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œļ𑌃 - thirteenth
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - chapter
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 - field (body, realm of experience)
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 - knower of the field (conscious principle)
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌭𑌾𑌗 - distinction, division
đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œƒ - union, discipline

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Om. Salutations to the Supreme Self. Now begins the thirteenth chapter, called 'The Yoga of the Distinction between the Field and the Knower of the Field.'

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This introductory verse sets the stage for the thirteenth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, highlighting the key concepts of 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (the field), 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (the knower of the field), and their đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌭𑌾𑌗 (distinction). The term 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 refers to the body or the domain of experience, while 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 points to the conscious self that observes and interacts with this field. The word đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œƒ here suggests a method or discipline for understanding the relationship and difference between these two. The invocation with 𑌓𑌂 and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑍇 𑌨𑌮𑌃 is a traditional way to begin a new section, expressing reverence and setting a contemplative tone.

The distinction between 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 and 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 is central to the teachings of 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯. 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 comprises the body, senses, and mind-the mutable field of experience-while the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 is the immutable pure consciousness that illumines this field. In contrast, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ expands this understanding by identifying the Supreme Self as the ultimate 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 present within all beings, transcending individual selves. This distinction is not merely philosophical but practical, as it underlies the process of self-realization and detachment. The Upanishadic injunction 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑍋 𑌮𑌾 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the 𑌚𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍁đ‘Œļ𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 beautifully encapsulates this journey-from ignorance embodied in the field to the light of consciousness as the knower. Recognizing this difference prepares the seeker to observe the field without attachment, paving the way for the practical applications of this wisdom in daily life.

In modern life, this distinction can be reflected in how we identify ourselves. For example, when facing stress at work, recognizing that our thoughts and emotions are part of the 'field' while our awareness remains separate can help us respond more calmly. Similarly, in relationships, understanding that our roles and interactions are aspects of the field, but our true self is the observer, can reduce conflict and increase empathy. As a reflection exercise, try to observe your thoughts and bodily sensations for a few minutes each day, reminding yourself that you are the knower, not the field itself. This practice can foster clarity and inner peace.

𑌅𑌰𑍍𑌜𑍁𑌨 𑌉đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌚
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌂 đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌂 𑌚𑍈đ‘Œĩ 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌮𑍇đ‘Œĩ 𑌚 āĨ¤
𑌏𑌤𑌤𑍍 đ‘Œĩ𑍇đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍁𑌮đ‘Œŋ𑌚𑍍𑌛𑌾𑌮đ‘Œŋ 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ 𑌚 𑌕𑍇đ‘Œļđ‘Œĩ āĨĨ0āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌅𑌰𑍍𑌜𑍁𑌨 - Arjuna (the questioner)
𑌉đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌚 - said
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌂 (đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌂) - nature, material cause
đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌂 (đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌂) - spirit, conscious self
𑌚 - and
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed, also
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 (𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂) - the field, body or realm of experience
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌂 (𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌂) - knower of the field, the conscious principle within
𑌏𑌤𑌤𑍍 - this
đ‘Œĩ𑍇đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍁𑌮𑍍 - to know, to understand
𑌇𑌚𑍍𑌛𑌾𑌮đ‘Œŋ - I wish, I desire
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 - knowledge, the means of knowing
đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ - that which is to be known, the object of true knowledge
𑌚 - and
𑌕𑍇đ‘Œļđ‘Œĩ - O Kesava (Krishna, addressed by Arjuna)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Arjuna said: O Kesava, I wish to understand what is meant by nature and spirit, the field and its knower, as well as knowledge and what should be known.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse opens with Arjuna's inquiry, highlighting his desire to comprehend several foundational concepts: đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ (nature), đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 (spirit), 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (the field), 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (knower of the field), 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 (knowledge), and đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ (that which is to be known). By listing these terms, Arjuna signals a shift in the conversation toward the philosophical underpinnings of existence and consciousness. The use of đ‘Œĩ𑍇đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍁𑌂 𑌇𑌚𑍍𑌛𑌾𑌮đ‘Œŋ-'I wish to know'-shows his earnestness and humility as a seeker. Each term represents a distinct aspect of reality: the material, the conscious, the body, the self, the process of knowing, and the ultimate object of knowledge. This sets the stage for a deep exploration of the relationship between matter and consciousness, which is central to the teachings of the thirteenth chapter.

While 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ do not provide commentary on this verse in their principal works, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ highlights it as a crucial turning point where Arjuna explicitly seeks to understand the fundamental distinction between đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ (nature) and đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 (spirit), or the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (field) and the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (knower of the field). This inquiry initiates Krishna's profound teaching on the difference between the perishable body and the imperishable self. The importance of this quest for true knowledge is underscored by the Upanishadic prayer from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍: 𑌅𑌸𑌤𑍋 𑌮𑌾 𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯, meaning 'Lead me from the unreal to the real.' This invocation captures the essence of Arjuna's request-to transcend ignorance and confusion about the self and the world. By framing the question in this way, the verse prepares the listener for a systematic exploration of self-realization, which naturally leads into practical reflections on identity and consciousness in daily life.

In modern life, this verse mirrors the questions many people ask about the difference between their physical existence and their inner consciousness. For example, a scientist might wonder about the boundary between brain activity and subjective experience, while a person facing a major life change might ask what truly defines their identity beyond their circumstances. Another example is someone exploring meditation, seeking to understand the difference between their thoughts (the field) and the awareness observing those thoughts (the knower). As a reflection exercise, consider what you identify with most: your body, your thoughts, or the awareness behind them. How does this shape your sense of self and your approach to knowledge?

đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌭𑌗đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌨𑍁đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌚
𑌇đ‘ŒĻ𑌂 đ‘Œļ𑌰𑍀𑌰𑌂 đ‘Œ•đ‘Œđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡đ‘Œ¯ 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌮đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ­đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ§đ‘€đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨ¤
𑌏𑌤đ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹ đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ 𑌤𑌂 đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌾𑌹𑍁𑌃 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ 𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑌃 āĨĨ1āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌇đ‘ŒĻ𑌂 - this
đ‘Œļ𑌰𑍀𑌰𑌂 - body
đ‘Œ•đ‘Œđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡đ‘Œ¯ - O son of Kunti (Arjuna)
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 - field
𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ - thus
𑌅𑌭đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ§đ‘€đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is called
𑌏𑌤𑌤𑍍 - this
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - who
đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ - knows
𑌤𑌂 - him
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌾𑌹𑍁𑌃 - they call
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 - knower of the field
𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ - thus
𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑌃 - those who understand (the wise)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
The Blessed Lord said: Arjuna, this body is referred to as the field. One who understands this field is called the knower of the field by those who are wise.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse introduces the concepts of đ‘Œļ𑌰𑍀𑌰𑌂 (body), 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 (field), and 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (knower of the field). Here, Krishna addresses Arjuna as đ‘Œ•đ‘Œđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡đ‘Œ¯, emphasizing his identity as the son of Kunti and drawing his attention to the teaching. The term 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 is used metaphorically to represent the body as a field where experiences and actions take place. The phrase 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 refers to the conscious principle that is aware of and experiences the body. The wise, indicated by 𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑌃, recognize this distinction between the body and its conscious knower. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the relationship between matter and consciousness.

Although 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ do not provide commentary on this verse, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ and 𑌮𑌧𑍁𑌸𑍂đ‘ŒĻ𑌨 𑌸𑌰𑌸𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑍀 elucidate the essential distinction between 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 (the body or field) and 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (the knower of the field). 𑌮𑌧𑍁𑌸𑍂đ‘ŒĻ𑌨 𑌸𑌰𑌸𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑍀 emphasizes that true wisdom arises from recognizing the self as the conscious observer, separate from the physical body which merely serves as the field of experience. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ highlights that the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 is the immutable witness, distinct from the mutable 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂. This distinction aligns with the Upanishadic teaching 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), which means the true self neither takes birth nor dies, underscoring its eternal and unchanging nature. Understanding this difference is foundational for spiritual progress, as it shifts identification from the transient body to the eternal knower, preparing one to apply this insight practically in daily life.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied by recognizing that our bodies and circumstances are like fields in which we act, but our true identity lies in the awareness that observes and experiences these actions. For example, when facing illness or physical discomfort, remembering that the body is the field and not the self can help maintain inner peace. Similarly, in situations of emotional turmoil, identifying with the knower rather than the changing experiences can provide stability. As a reflection exercise, try to observe your thoughts and sensations for a few minutes each day, reminding yourself that you are the witness, not the body or mind. This practice can gradually shift your sense of identity toward the deeper self.

𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌂 𑌚𑌾đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ 𑌮𑌾𑌂 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍇𑌷𑍁 𑌭𑌾𑌰𑌤 āĨ¤
đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘‡đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘‡đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ‚ đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ‚ 𑌮𑌤𑌂 𑌮𑌮 āĨĨ2āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌂 - the knower of the field (accusative singular, refers to the conscious self)
𑌚 - and
𑌅đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ - also
𑌮𑌾𑌂 - me (Krishna, the Supreme Self)
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ - know (imperative, instructing Arjuna)
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍇𑌷𑍁 - in all fields (locative plural, all bodies)
𑌭𑌾𑌰𑌤 - O descendant of Bharata (Arjuna)
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰-đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘‡đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œšđ‘ - of the field and the knower of the field (genitive dual)
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 - knowledge (accusative singular)
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ - which
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 - knowledge (repeated for emphasis)
𑌮𑌤𑌂 - is considered (by me)
𑌮𑌮 - by me (Krishna)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Know, Arjuna, that I am the knower of the field in all bodies. Understanding the distinction between the field and its knower is what I consider to be true knowledge.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse introduces the terms 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (field), 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (knower of the field), and 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 (knowledge), which are central to the teachings of this chapter. The 'field' refers to the body, the physical and mental domain in which experiences occur. The 'knower of the field' is the conscious principle, the self that observes and experiences the body and mind. Krishna instructs Arjuna to recognize that the true knower in every body is ultimately the same Supreme Self, and that understanding the difference between the body (as an object) and the conscious self (as the subject) is essential knowledge. The verse also emphasizes that this insight is not just theoretical but foundational for spiritual growth.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the body is termed 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 because it serves as the field where all actions and experiences take place, while the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 is the conscious witness distinct from this field. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ emphasizes that the self is the true experiencer, separate from the body, and that realizing this distinction is essential for liberation. This understanding aligns with the Upanishadic teaching 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), which means the self neither takes birth nor dies, highlighting its eternal nature beyond the transient body. Together, these insights deepen the knowledge introduced in the first paragraph and prepare us to apply this awareness practically, as discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching encourages us to see ourselves not just as our bodies or minds, but as the conscious observer behind all experiences. For example, when facing stress at work, remembering that you are the witness of your thoughts and emotions can help create space and reduce reactivity. When dealing with illness or aging, this perspective helps maintain inner peace by recognizing that the body is a temporary field, not the true self. As a reflection exercise, try to observe your thoughts and sensations for a few minutes each day, asking yourself: Who is aware of these experiences? This simple inquiry can foster a deeper sense of self-awareness and resilience.

𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œš đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘ŒĻ𑍃𑌕𑍍𑌚 đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰đ‘Œŋ đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚 đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ āĨ¤
𑌸 𑌚 đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹ đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚 𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌸𑌮𑌾𑌸𑍇𑌨 𑌮𑍇 đ‘Œļđ‘ƒđ‘ŒŖđ‘ āĨĨ3āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 - field (body or matter)
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ - which
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘ŒĻ𑍃𑌕𑍍 - of what kind
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ - which
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰đ‘Œŋ - what modifications
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œƒ - from what cause
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ - which
𑌸𑌃 - he
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - who
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌃 - whose influence or power
𑌚 - and
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that
𑌸𑌮𑌾𑌸𑍇𑌨 - briefly, in summary
𑌮𑍇 - from me
đ‘Œļđ‘ƒđ‘ŒŖđ‘ - listen

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Now listen as I explain to you, in brief, what the field is, its nature, its changes, its origin, and also who the knower of the field is and what powers they possess.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse introduces several important terms: 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 (field), đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰đ‘Œŋ (modifications), đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ (influence or power), and đ‘Œļđ‘ƒđ‘ŒŖđ‘ (listen). Here, 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 refers to the body or the realm of experience, which is subject to change and transformation, indicated by đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰đ‘Œŋ. The word đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ points to the unique qualities or powers that arise from the interaction of the field and its knower. Krishna is inviting Arjuna to pay close attention (đ‘Œļđ‘ƒđ‘ŒŖđ‘) as he is about to summarize the essential characteristics of both the field and its knower, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the relationship between matter and consciousness. The verse emphasizes that knowing the nature, changes, and source of the field, as well as the identity and influence of its knower, is crucial for true knowledge.

The verse's delineation of 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 and its đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ invites nuanced interpretation by revered Acharyas. 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 includes all mutable physical and mental phenomena, while the 𑌕𑍍đ‘Œļ𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌨 is the immutable consciousness that illuminates them, emphasizing their essential non-duality. In contrast, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ teaches that both the field and its knower are inseparable from the Supreme Lord, who dwells as the inner controller in all beings, thus affirming their divine unity. This understanding is supported by the Upanishadic injunction 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑍋 𑌮𑌾 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which means 'lead me from darkness to light,' symbolizing the movement from ignorance of the field and knower to true knowledge. These perspectives deepen the foundational insight introduced in the first paragraph and prepare us to apply this knowledge practically by discerning the changing field from the unchanging knower, as discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied by observing how our bodies and minds are constantly changing, yet there is an unchanging awareness that experiences these changes. For example, when you notice your emotions shifting throughout the day, or your body aging over the years, you can reflect on the presence of a witnessing consciousness that remains steady. Another example is in relationships: recognizing that both you and others are more than just your roles or appearances can foster empathy and deeper connection. As a reflection exercise, take a few minutes to sit quietly and observe your thoughts and sensations, asking yourself: Who is aware of these experiences? This practice can help you distinguish between the ever-changing field and the stable knower within.

𑌋𑌷đ‘Œŋ𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒŦ𑌹𑍁𑌧𑌾 𑌗𑍀𑌤𑌂 𑌛𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍋𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌧𑍈𑌃 đ‘ŒĒ𑍃đ‘ŒĨ𑌕𑍍 āĨ¤
đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮𑌸𑍂𑌤𑍍𑌰đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑍈đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚𑍈đ‘Œĩ 𑌹𑍇𑌤𑍁𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍈𑌃 āĨĨ4āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌋𑌷đ‘Œŋ𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - by sages
đ‘ŒŦ𑌹𑍁𑌧𑌾 - in many ways
𑌗𑍀𑌤𑌂 - has been sung (taught, explained)
𑌛𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍋𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - by Vedic meters (hymns)
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌧𑍈𑌃 - of various kinds
đ‘ŒĒ𑍃đ‘ŒĨ𑌕𑍍 - separately (distinctly, individually)
đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮𑌸𑍂𑌤𑍍𑌰đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑍈𑌃 - by the words of the Brahma Sutras
𑌚 - and
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed
𑌹𑍇𑌤𑍁𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - with reasoning (logical arguments)
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍈𑌃 - ascertained (established, determined)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
The sages have explained this subject in many ways, using diverse Vedic hymns and also through the logical and definitive statements of the Brahma Sutras.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the importance of tradition and scriptural authority in understanding the nature of the field and its knower. The terms 𑌋𑌷đ‘Œŋ𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌃 (by sages), 𑌛𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍋𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌃 (by Vedic meters), đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮𑌸𑍂𑌤𑍍𑌰đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑍈𑌃 (by the words of the Brahma Sutras), and 𑌹𑍇𑌤𑍁𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌃 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍈𑌃 (with logical certainty) all point to different sources and methods of knowledge. The field and its knower are not just topics for speculation; they have been rigorously examined and articulated by wise teachers through poetic hymns, systematic treatises, and logical reasoning. This verse reassures the listener that the teachings about the field and its knower are not arbitrary but are grounded in a long-standing and multifaceted tradition of inquiry.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the knowledge of the 𑌕𑍍đ‘Œļ𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (field) and 𑌕𑍍đ‘Œļ𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰-𑌜𑍍𑌞 (knower of the field) is firmly grounded in both scriptural revelation and logical inquiry, demonstrating the essential harmony between đ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖ (means of knowledge) and 𑌤𑌰𑍍𑌕 (reasoning). Meanwhile, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ stresses the significance of 𑌹𑍇𑌤𑍁𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌃 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍈𑌃-logical certainty-emphasizing that scriptural testimony must be complemented by rigorous analysis to dispel doubt and establish truth. This dual approach reflects the teaching of the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18): 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍, which assures the eternal nature of the self beyond birth and death, a truth apprehended through both revealed knowledge and discriminative reasoning. Thus, the verse continues the theme introduced in paragraph one by affirming that the understanding of the field and its knower is not mere speculation but a well-founded synthesis of diverse authoritative sources, preparing us to apply this integrated wisdom practically, as discussed in the following paragraph.

In modern life, this verse encourages us to seek knowledge from multiple credible sources rather than relying on a single perspective. For example, when making a significant decision, one might consult scientific research, expert opinions, and personal experience, much like the sages used hymns, treatises, and logic. In academic or professional settings, integrating insights from different disciplines can lead to a more complete understanding of complex issues. As a reflection exercise, consider a topic you care about deeply. List three different sources or methods you could use to understand it better, and notice how each adds a unique dimension to your knowledge.

đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ­đ‘‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œšđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘Œƒ đ‘ŒŦ𑍁đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ𑌰đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘ŒŽđ‘‡đ‘Œĩ 𑌚 āĨ¤
𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋ đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œļ𑍈𑌕𑌂 𑌚 đ‘ŒĒ𑌂𑌚 𑌚𑍇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ—đ‘‹đ‘Œšđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œƒ āĨĨ5āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌮𑌹𑌾𑌭𑍂𑌤𑌾𑌨đ‘Œŋ - the great elements (earth, water, fire, air, space)
𑌅𑌹𑌂𑌕𑌾𑌰𑌃 - ego-sense, the sense of individuality
đ‘ŒŦ𑍁đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - intellect, faculty of discrimination
𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘ŒŽđ‘ - the unmanifest, primal matter (đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ in its subtle state)
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed, certainly
𑌚 - and
𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋ - the senses (organs of perception and action)
đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œļ - ten
𑌏𑌕𑌮𑍍 - one (the mind)
đ‘ŒĒ𑌂𑌚 - five
𑌚 - and
𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯-𑌗𑍋𑌚𑌰𑌾𑌃 - objects of the senses

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
The five great elements, the sense of ego, the intellect, the unmanifest, the ten senses and the mind, and the five objects of the senses-these together make up the field.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse lists the fundamental components that make up the 'field' or 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰. The key terms here are 𑌮𑌹𑌾𑌭𑍂𑌤𑌾𑌨đ‘Œŋ (the five great elements: earth, water, fire, air, and space), 𑌅𑌹𑌂𑌕𑌾𑌰𑌃 (ego-sense), đ‘ŒŦ𑍁đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ𑌃 (intellect), and 𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘ŒŽđ‘ (the unmanifest, referring to the subtle, undifferentiated state of matter). The verse also mentions the ten 𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋ (senses, which include both organs of perception and action), the mind as the eleventh, and the five sense-objects (sound, touch, form, taste, smell). Together, these form the basic building blocks of the physical and psychological world that the individual experiences. By enumerating these, the Gita sets the stage for distinguishing between the body-mind complex and the true self.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that the enumeration of the 𑌮𑌹𑌾𑌭𑍂𑌤𑌾𑌨đ‘Œŋ, 𑌅𑌹𑌂𑌕𑌾𑌰𑌃, đ‘ŒŦ𑍁đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ𑌃, 𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘ŒŽđ‘, and the senses in this verse is a profound teaching echoed throughout the Vedic tradition, emphasizing the distinction between the transient body-mind complex and the eternal self. đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ further elucidates that these elements constitute the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 or field, which is distinct from the 𑌕𑍍đ‘Œļ𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌨, the conscious soul that illumines the field. This distinction is vital for spiritual inquiry and liberation. The Upanishadic prayer đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œž 𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 beautifully captures this aspiration, meaning 'Lead me from death to immortality,' signifying the seeker's journey beyond the perishable components of existence toward the imperishable self. This verse thus prepares the aspirant to recognize the layered nature of material existence, setting the foundation for practical reflection on the self beyond the body and mind.

In modern life, this teaching can be reflected in how we identify ourselves with our bodies, thoughts, and emotions. For example, when someone feels insulted, they may react as if their very being is threatened, forgetting that the true self is distinct from the mind and ego. Another example is the pursuit of sensory pleasures, where people often equate happiness with satisfying the senses, not realizing these are just interactions within the 'field'. A practical reflection exercise: Take a few moments to observe your thoughts and sensations. Ask yourself, 'Am I the body, the mind, or the observer of these experiences?' This simple inquiry can help create distance from habitual identification with the field and open the door to deeper self-understanding.

𑌇𑌚𑍍𑌛𑌾 đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌷𑌃 𑌸𑍁𑌖𑌂 đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖𑌂 𑌸𑌂𑌘𑌾𑌤đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚𑍇𑌤𑌨𑌾 𑌧𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 āĨ¤
𑌏𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 𑌸𑌮𑌾𑌸𑍇𑌨 𑌸đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰𑌮𑍁đ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌹𑍃𑌤𑌮𑍍 āĨĨ6āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌇𑌚𑍍𑌛 - desire
đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌷 - aversion or hatred
𑌸𑍁𑌖𑌂 - pleasure, happiness
đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖𑌂 - pain, suffering
𑌸𑌂𑌘𑌾𑌤𑌃 - aggregate, physical body-complex
𑌚𑍇𑌤𑌨𑌾 - consciousness, sentience
𑌧𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - firmness, perseverance
𑌏𑌤𑌤𑍍 - this
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 - field (body-mind complex)
𑌸𑌮𑌾𑌸𑍇𑌨 - in summary, briefly
𑌸đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰𑌮𑍍 - with modifications
𑌉đ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌹𑍃𑌤𑌮𑍍 - is described, is stated

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Desire, aversion, pleasure, pain, the physical body as an aggregate, consciousness, and steadfastness-these, along with their various changes, are briefly described as the field.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse lists several important aspects of the 'field' or 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂, which refers to the body-mind complex. The words 𑌇𑌚𑍍𑌛 (desire) and đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌷 (aversion) highlight the emotional responses that drive human behavior. 𑌸𑍁𑌖𑌂 (pleasure) and đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖𑌂 (pain) point to the dual experiences that color our lives. The term 𑌸𑌂𑌘𑌾𑌤𑌃 refers to the aggregate or assembly of physical and subtle components that make up the individual, while 𑌚𑍇𑌤𑌨𑌾 (consciousness) is the awareness that animates this aggregate. 𑌧𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 (steadfastness or perseverance) is the capacity to endure and maintain focus. The verse summarizes that all these, with their modifications, constitute the field, emphasizing the dynamic and composite nature of embodied existence.

The distinction between the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 and the 𑌜𑍀đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑍍 is crucial in understanding this verse, as explained by 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯. 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ clarifies that qualities such as 𑌇𑌚𑍍𑌛 (desire) and đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌷 (aversion) are modifications of the field, not inherent to the pure self, which is unchanging consciousness. He interprets 𑌚𑍇𑌤𑌨𑌾 here as reflected consciousness associated with the mind-body complex, distinct from the immutable 𑌜𑍀đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑍍. Meanwhile, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ emphasizes that the aggregate (𑌸𑌂𑌘𑌾𑌤𑌃) serves as the substratum for experiencing pleasure and pain, enabling the soul's interaction with the world and its spiritual evolution. This understanding aligns with the Upanishadic injunction 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑍋 𑌮𑌾 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌊đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which means 'Lead me from darkness to light,' symbolizing the movement from ignorance of the self's true nature to the illumination of self-knowledge. Recognizing these qualities as attributes of the field rather than the self provides a foundation for the practical reflection on desires and emotions discussed next.

In modern life, these concepts are highly relevant. For example, when someone feels intense desire for a new gadget or experiences aversion toward a difficult colleague, they are witnessing 𑌇𑌚𑍍𑌛 and đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌷 in action. The ups and downs of daily life-joy at a promotion or disappointment after a setback-are expressions of 𑌸𑍁𑌖𑌂 and đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖𑌂. The ability to persevere through a challenging project reflects 𑌧𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃. A practical reflection exercise: Take a few minutes each evening to notice which desires, aversions, pleasures, and pains influenced your actions that day. Observe how these experiences arise within the 'field' of your body and mind, and consider how recognizing them as modifications of the field can help you respond with greater awareness and balance.

𑌅𑌮𑌾𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑌂𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 𑌅𑌹đ‘Œŋ𑌂𑌸𑌾 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑌾𑌂𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌰𑌾𑌰𑍍𑌜đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 āĨ¤
đ‘Œ†đ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌸𑌨𑌂 đ‘Œļ𑍌𑌚𑌂 𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘ˆđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌹𑌃 āĨĨ𑍭āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌅𑌮𑌾𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ - absence of pride (amAnitvam)
𑌅đ‘ŒĻ𑌂𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ - absence of hypocrisy (adambhitvam)
𑌅𑌹đ‘Œŋ𑌂𑌸𑌾 - non-violence
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑌾𑌂𑌤đ‘Œŋ - forbearance, patience (kShAntiH)
𑌆𑌰𑍍𑌜đ‘Œĩ - straightforwardness, sincerity (Arjavam)
đ‘Œ†đ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌸𑌨 - reverence for the teacher (AchAryopAsanam)
𑌸𑍌𑌚 - purity, cleanliness (Saucham)
𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘ˆđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ - steadiness, firmness (sthairyam)
𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌹 - self-control (AtmavinigrahaH)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Humility, honesty, non-violence, patience, sincerity, devotion to one's teacher, cleanliness, steadiness, and self-control are qualities that make up the field of experience.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse lists several foundational qualities that shape a person's inner landscape, or what is called the 'field' in this chapter. The terms 𑌅𑌮𑌾𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ (humility) and 𑌅đ‘ŒĻ𑌂𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ (honesty) point to a mindset free from arrogance and pretense. 𑌅𑌹đ‘Œŋ𑌂𑌸𑌾 (non-violence) extends beyond physical action to include non-harmful thoughts and words. 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑌾𑌂𑌤đ‘Œŋ (patience) and 𑌆𑌰𑍍𑌜đ‘Œĩ (sincerity) emphasize the importance of enduring difficulties calmly and maintaining integrity. The phrase đ‘Œ†đ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌸𑌨 (reverence for the teacher) highlights the value of learning from a spiritual guide, while 𑌸𑍌𑌚 (cleanliness) refers to both external and internal purity. 𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘ˆđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ (steadiness) and 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌹 (self-control) round out the list, underscoring the need for stability and discipline in one's actions and emotions. Together, these qualities are described as modifications or expressions of the field, shaping how one experiences and interacts with the world.

The qualities enumerated in this verse are understood by 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ as attributes of the 𑌕𑍍𑌸𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰, the body-mind complex, which are objects of knowledge rather than the true Self. He teaches that cultivating these virtues purifies the mind, enabling it to become a steady instrument for self-inquiry and realization. Meanwhile, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets these qualities as arising from the association of the Self with the body and emphasizes their indispensable role in spiritual progress. He particularly stresses đ‘Œ†đ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌸𑌨-reverence for the spiritual teacher-as essential for receiving correct guidance on the path. This understanding aligns with the Upanishadic injunction 𑌉𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠𑌤 𑌜𑌾𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌤 đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌾đ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯ đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌾𑌨𑍍𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒŦ𑍋𑌧𑌤 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.3.14), which exhorts one to 'Arise, awake, and learn the excellent wisdom.' Thus, these virtues form the foundation for steady practice and prepare the aspirant to engage deeply with the teachings, bridging the inner qualities described here with their practical application in daily life.

In modern life, these qualities can be seen in various contexts: practicing humility at work by acknowledging others' contributions, showing patience when dealing with difficult situations or people, and maintaining honesty even when it is inconvenient. For example, a student might demonstrate đ‘Œ†đ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌸𑌨 by respecting and learning sincerely from a mentor, while a professional might practice 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌹 by managing impulses and staying focused on long-term goals. As a reflection exercise, consider which of these qualities you find most challenging to embody in your daily life. Take a few minutes to identify one situation where you could apply greater patience or sincerity, and plan a small action to cultivate that quality in the coming week.

𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒĨ𑍇𑌷𑍁 đ‘Œĩđ‘ˆđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘ 𑌅𑌨𑌹𑌂𑌕𑌾𑌰 𑌏đ‘Œĩ 𑌚 āĨ¤
đ‘Œœđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ§đ‘Œŋ-đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖đ‘ŒĻ𑍋𑌷𑌾𑌨𑍁đ‘ŒĻ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œļ𑌨𑌮𑍍 āĨĨ𑍮āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯ - sense organ
𑌅𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ (in 𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒĨ𑍇𑌷𑍁) - objects of the senses
đ‘Œĩđ‘ˆđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘Œ¯ - detachment, dispassion
𑌅𑌨𑌹𑌂𑌕𑌾𑌰 - absence of ego, non-egoism
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed, also
𑌚 - and
𑌜𑌨𑍍𑌮 - birth
đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘ - death
𑌜𑌰𑌾 - old age
đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ§đ‘Œŋ - disease
đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖 - suffering
đ‘ŒĻ𑍋𑌷 - faults, defects
𑌅𑌨𑍁đ‘ŒĻ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œļ𑌨 - constant reflection, seeing repeatedly

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Detachment from the pleasures of the senses, freedom from pride, and the steady awareness of the pain and flaws found in birth, death, aging, and illness-these are qualities of knowledge.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights several key qualities that support true understanding. The phrase 𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒĨ𑍇𑌷𑍁 đ‘Œĩđ‘ˆđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘Œ¯ points to the importance of not being attached to sensory pleasures, suggesting that wisdom grows when we are not ruled by cravings. 𑌅𑌨𑌹𑌂𑌕𑌾𑌰 refers to the absence of ego, meaning a person does not identify with pride or a sense of superiority. The compound 𑌜𑌨𑍍𑌮-đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘-𑌜𑌰𑌾-đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ§đ‘Œŋ-đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖-đ‘ŒĻ𑍋𑌷-𑌅𑌨𑍁đ‘ŒĻ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œļ𑌨𑌮𑍍 emphasizes the need to regularly reflect on the inherent suffering and imperfections in the cycles of birth, death, old age, and disease. By recognizing these realities, one develops a deeper sense of detachment and perspective, which is essential for spiritual maturity.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that đ‘Œĩđ‘ˆđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘Œ¯ is the essential practice of withdrawing the mind from sense objects, which purifies the intellect and prepares it for higher knowledge. He emphasizes 𑌅𑌨𑌹𑌂𑌕𑌾𑌰 as the humble absence of egoistic pride, which allows one to receive wisdom without obstruction. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets detachment as refraining from finding joy in anything other than the true self, encouraging a steady reflection on the sufferings of birth, death, old age, and disease to cultivate dispassion. This aligns with the Upanishadic injunction đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œž 𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the Bhadrayaka Upanishad, which means 'lead me from death to immortality,' highlighting the transformative goal of transcending worldly suffering through detachment and humility. Together, these teachings deepen the understanding of the verse's call for inner renunciation and prepare the seeker for practical application in daily life.

In modern life, practicing detachment from sensory pleasures could mean being mindful of overindulgence in food, entertainment, or social media, and choosing moderation instead. Letting go of ego might involve accepting feedback at work without defensiveness, or not feeling the need to always be right in conversations. Regularly reflecting on the realities of aging, illness, and mortality can help us prioritize what truly matters, such as relationships and meaningful pursuits. As a reflection exercise, consider spending a few minutes each week contemplating the impermanent nature of life and how this awareness might shift your daily choices and attitudes.

𑌅𑌸𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌰𑌨𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌂𑌗𑌃 đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌤𑍍𑌰đ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑌗𑍃𑌹𑌾đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍁 āĨ¤
𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ 𑌚 𑌸𑌮𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍𑌤𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 𑌇𑌷𑍍𑌟𑌾𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌟𑍋đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĒ𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍁 āĨĨđ‘¯āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌅𑌸𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - non-attachment, absence of clinging
𑌅𑌨𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌞𑍍𑌗𑌃 - absence of possessiveness or deep attachment
đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌤𑍍𑌰-đ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰-𑌗𑍃𑌹-𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍁 - towards children, spouse, home, and similar things
𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ - always, constantly
𑌚 - and
𑌸𑌮-𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍𑌤𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 - equanimity, evenness of mind
𑌇𑌷𑍍𑌟-𑌅𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌟-𑌉đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĒ𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍁 - in the occurrence of pleasant and unpleasant situations

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Freedom from attachment and possessiveness regarding children, spouse, home, and similar things; always maintaining a balanced mind in both favorable and unfavorable situations.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the qualities of 𑌅𑌸𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 (non-attachment), 𑌅𑌨𑌭đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌞𑍍𑌗𑌃 (absence of possessiveness), and 𑌸𑌮-𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍𑌤𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 (equanimity of mind). The text points out that one should not cling to family, possessions, or outcomes, but instead cultivate a steady mind regardless of what life brings. The phrase đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌤𑍍𑌰-đ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰-𑌗𑍃𑌹-𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍁 specifies that this detachment is not just from objects, but also from relationships and roles that are often deeply rooted in personal identity. The verse further emphasizes that true wisdom involves remaining even-minded when faced with both desirable and undesirable events (𑌇𑌷𑍍𑌟-𑌅𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌟-𑌉đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĒ𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍁), suggesting that spiritual maturity is measured by how one responds to life's ups and downs rather than by external achievements or attachments.

The profound teachings of 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ illuminate this verse's call for non-attachment and equanimity. 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ emphasizes that recognizing the transient nature of worldly phenomena and the inherent suffering in birth, death, and old age naturally fosters 𑌅𑌸𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃, detachment from sense objects and relationships. He often cites the Upanishadic prayer đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œž 𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the 𑌚𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍁đ‘Œļ𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which means 'lead me from death to immortality,' highlighting the aspirant's journey beyond the cycle of birth and death through dispassion. Meanwhile, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets non-attachment as arising from the clear discrimination between the eternal self and the impermanent body, teaching that equanimity is rooted in the understanding that all external experiences are fleeting and do not define the true self. This insight prepares the seeker to maintain a steady mind amid life's fluctuations, thus bridging the philosophical foundation laid in the first paragraph with the practical guidance on cultivating such balance in daily life, as discussed next.

In modern life, practicing non-attachment might mean caring deeply for your family while not letting your happiness depend solely on their actions or achievements. For example, a parent might support their child's choices without feeling devastated if things do not go as hoped. Similarly, equanimity could involve responding calmly to both praise and criticism at work, rather than being elated by success or crushed by setbacks. To reflect on this, consider a recent situation where you felt strongly attached to an outcome or person. Ask yourself: How did this attachment affect your peace of mind? What might change if you approached similar situations with more even-mindedness and less possessiveness? This exercise can help reveal where greater detachment and balance could bring more stability and contentment.

đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œŋ đ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ 𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌰đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ­đ‘Œŋ𑌚𑌾𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒŖđ‘€ āĨ¤
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑍇đ‘Œļ𑌸𑍇đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 𑌅𑌰𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌰𑍍𑌜𑌨𑌸𑌂𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ āĨĨ10āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œŋ - in Me (the Supreme, in the Lord)
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯-đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ - with undivided (exclusive) đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ— (devotion)
𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - devotion
𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ­đ‘Œŋ𑌚𑌾𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒŖđ‘€ - unwavering, unbroken
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑍍𑌤-đ‘ŒĻ𑍇đ‘Œļ-𑌸𑍇đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 - fondness for solitary places
𑌅𑌰𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌹𑍍 - disinterest, aversion
𑌜𑌨-𑌸𑌂𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ - in crowds, in company of people

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Unwavering devotion to Me through exclusive yoga, a preference for quiet and solitary places, and a lack of attraction to crowds or social gatherings.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights three qualities that support spiritual growth: 𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ­đ‘Œŋ𑌚𑌾𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒŖđ‘€ 𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 (steady, undistracted devotion), đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑍍𑌤-đ‘ŒĻ𑍇đ‘Œļ-𑌸𑍇đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 (seeking out solitude), and 𑌅𑌰𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌹𑍍 𑌜𑌨-𑌸𑌂𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ (disinterest in crowds). The first, unwavering devotion, means maintaining a single-pointed focus on the Divine without letting other interests or distractions dilute one's commitment. The second, seeking solitude, encourages spending time in quiet places that are conducive to reflection and meditation. The third, aversion to crowds, suggests that spiritual progress is often hindered by constant socializing or the distractions of busy environments. Together, these qualities help create an inner atmosphere where deeper understanding and connection with the Divine can flourish.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that 𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ­đ‘Œŋ𑌚𑌾𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒŖđ‘€ 𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 signifies a devotion that remains unwavering and exclusive to the Supreme, not diverted by other objects or distractions. He further clarifies that đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑍍𑌤-đ‘ŒĻ𑍇đ‘Œļ-𑌸𑍇đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 involves consciously choosing environments that foster mental calmness and spiritual focus, rather than mere physical solitude. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets these qualities as essential inner dispositions that support the cultivation of knowledge and realization, emphasizing that such steadfastness and selective seclusion are not superficial practices but deeply rooted attitudes. This understanding aligns with the Upanishadic injunction 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), which teaches that the true Self neither takes birth nor dies, encouraging the aspirant to maintain steady devotion and equanimity beyond worldly fluctuations. Together, these insights bridge the cultivation of unwavering devotion and solitude with practical steps toward spiritual progress, preparing the ground for applying these principles in daily life.

In modern life, unwavering devotion might look like setting aside time each day for meditation or prayer, regardless of how busy or distracted you feel. Seeking solitude could mean taking regular walks in nature, turning off digital devices for a while, or creating a quiet corner in your home for reflection. Disinterest in crowds might involve choosing meaningful one-on-one interactions over large, noisy gatherings, or being mindful of how much time you spend on social media. As a reflection exercise, consider: When do you feel most connected to your deeper self or purpose? What simple changes could you make to create more space for that connection in your daily routine?

đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑌂 𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘ŒĻ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œļ𑌨𑌮𑍍 āĨ¤
𑌏𑌤𑌜𑍍𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌮đ‘Œŋ𑌤đ‘Œŋ đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌮𑍍 𑌅𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĻ𑌤𑍋đ‘ŒŊđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 āĨĨ11āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒŽ-𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨-𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 - constancy in self-knowledge
𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨-𑌅𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ-đ‘ŒĻ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œļ𑌨𑌮𑍍 - seeing the purpose of true knowledge
𑌏𑌤𑌤𑍍 - this
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 - knowledge
𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ - thus
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌮𑍍 - is said
𑌅𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 - ignorance
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ - that which
𑌅𑌤𑌃 - other than this
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 - otherwise

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Steadfastness in the pursuit of self-knowledge, and the understanding of the true purpose behind wisdom-these are declared to be knowledge. Anything contrary to this is considered ignorance.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights two essential qualities: đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒŽ-𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨-𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 (constancy in self-knowledge) and 𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨-𑌅𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ-đ‘ŒĻ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œļ𑌨𑌮𑍍 (the ability to discern the real aim of wisdom). The first quality points to a continuous, unwavering inquiry into the nature of the self, not just an occasional or theoretical interest. The second emphasizes that knowledge is not just about collecting facts or philosophical concepts, but about perceiving their deeper purpose-understanding what is truly real and meaningful. By stating 𑌏𑌤𑌤𑍍 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌮𑍍, the verse asserts that these qualities together constitute genuine knowledge. Anything that deviates from this, as indicated by 𑌅𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ 𑌅𑌤𑌃 đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĨ𑌾, falls into the realm of ignorance, regardless of how intellectually impressive it may seem.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒŽ-𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨-𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 signifies an unwavering, continuous engagement in self-knowledge, not merely theoretical understanding, while 𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨-𑌅𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ-đ‘ŒĻ𑌰𑍍đ‘Œļ𑌨𑌮𑍍 reveals the insight into the ultimate purpose of knowledge-realization of the Self beyond transient phenomena. He supports this by referencing the Upanishadic prayer 𑌅𑌸𑌤𑍋 𑌮𑌾 𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which means 'Lead me from the unreal to the real,' emphasizing the transformative aim of true knowledge. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ stresses that such knowledge must be accompanied by devotion and focused surrender to the Supreme, ensuring that the seeker's understanding is not fragmented but directed toward liberation. This integrated view connects the intellectual and devotional dimensions, highlighting that genuine wisdom involves both steady self-inquiry and a clear vision of the ultimate reality. This foundation prepares the way for practical application, as discussed in the following paragraph.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied by consistently reflecting on the deeper meaning behind our actions and learning, rather than just accumulating information or following routines. For example, a student might focus not only on memorizing facts, but on understanding how their studies contribute to their personal growth and values. A professional could regularly ask themselves whether their work aligns with their core principles and long-term purpose. As a reflection exercise, set aside a few minutes each day to ask: 'Am I pursuing knowledge that leads me closer to understanding myself and my purpose, or am I distracted by superficial goals?' This habit can help keep your efforts aligned with genuine wisdom.

đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œĩđ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑌾đ‘ŒŊ𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌮đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌨𑍁𑌤𑍇 āĨ¤
𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌮𑌤𑍍đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌂 đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮 𑌨 𑌸𑌤𑍍𑌤𑌨𑍍𑌨𑌾𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨĨ12āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ - that which is to be known
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ - which
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œĩđ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œŋ - I will explain
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘ - which
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾 - having known
𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌮𑍍 - immortality
𑌅đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌨𑍁𑌤𑍇 - attains
𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ - without beginning
𑌮𑌤𑍍 - supreme
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑍍 - highest
đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮 - Brahman (Absolute Reality)
𑌨 - not
𑌸𑌤𑍍 - existence (being)
𑌨 - nor
𑌅𑌸𑌤𑍍 - non-existence (non-being)
đ‘Œ‰đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is called

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
I will now describe that which is to be known, by knowing which one attains immortality. It is the beginningless Supreme Brahman, which is neither called being nor non-being.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse introduces the subject of the 'knowable' (đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚), the ultimate reality that is the focus of true knowledge. The Lord says, 'I will explain' (đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œĩđ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œŋ) that which, when understood (𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾), leads to immortality (𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌮𑍍). The object to be known is described as the Supreme Brahman (đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌂 đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮), which is without beginning (𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ). Importantly, this Brahman cannot be categorized as either existence (𑌸𑌤𑍍) or non-existence (𑌅𑌸𑌤𑍍), indicating its transcendence beyond ordinary dualities. The verse sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the nature of reality, emphasizing that the highest knowledge is not about empirical objects, but about the eternal, unconditioned principle underlying all phenomena.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the Supreme Brahman transcends all dualities, including 𑌸𑌤𑍍 and 𑌅𑌸𑌤𑍍, and that steadfast realization of this truth culminates in liberation. He emphasizes that the qualities mentioned earlier serve as preparatory steps, but the ultimate aim is the direct experiential knowledge of Brahman, which is beyond all conceptual distinctions. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets the verse as pointing to the personal Supreme Being, highlighting that true knowledge involves recognizing the Lord as the ultimate reality who grants immortality. This aligns with the Upanishadic invocation đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œž 𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, meaning 'Lead me from death to immortality,' which underscores the transformative power of this knowledge. Together, these teachings bridge the understanding of Brahman's transcendence with the practical goal of spiritual liberation, preparing us to apply this insight in daily life as discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching invites us to look beyond surface appearances and labels, whether in our relationships, careers, or self-identity. For example, when facing a difficult situation, instead of seeing it as simply 'good' or 'bad', we can reflect on the underlying reality that supports all change. In science, the search for a unified theory echoes the quest for a single underlying principle. A practical exercise: take a moment to observe your thoughts and feelings without labeling them as positive or negative. Notice the awareness in which they arise and subside. This awareness, which is not limited by the dualities of existence and non-existence, points toward the kind of knowledge described in this verse.

𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑌃 đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒ𑌾đ‘ŒĻ𑌂 𑌤𑌤𑍍 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑍋đ‘ŒŊ𑌕𑍍𑌷đ‘Œŋđ‘Œļđ‘Œŋ𑌰𑍋𑌮𑍁𑌖𑌮𑍍 āĨ¤
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑌃 đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌮𑌲𑍍𑌲𑍋𑌕𑍇 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑌾đ‘Œĩđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯ 𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠𑌤đ‘Œŋ āĨĨ13āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑌃 - from all sides, everywhere
đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋ - hand
đ‘ŒĒ𑌾đ‘ŒĻ - foot
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that (referring to the Supreme)
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑌃 - everywhere
𑌅𑌕𑍍𑌷đ‘Œŋ - eye
đ‘Œļđ‘Œŋ𑌰𑌹𑍍 - head
𑌮𑍁𑌖𑌮𑍍 - mouth
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑌃 - everywhere
đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤đ‘Œŋ - ear
𑌅đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ - also
𑌲𑍋𑌕𑍇 - in the world
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 - all
𑌆đ‘Œĩđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯ - pervading, enveloping
𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠𑌤đ‘Œŋ - remains, exists

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
That Supreme Reality has hands and feet everywhere, eyes, heads, and mouths in all directions, and ears throughout the world. Pervading everything, it remains present in all.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse uses vivid imagery with words like 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑌃 (everywhere), đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒ𑌾đ‘ŒĻ𑌂 (hands and feet), 𑌅𑌕𑍍𑌷đ‘Œŋđ‘Œļđ‘Œŋ𑌰𑍋𑌮𑍁𑌖𑌮𑍍 (eyes, heads, mouths), and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤đ‘Œŋ (ears) to describe the all-pervading nature of the Supreme. The repetition of 'everywhere' emphasizes that the Divine is not limited to a particular form or location but is present in every aspect of creation. The phrase 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌂 𑌆đ‘Œĩđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯ 𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠𑌤đ‘Œŋ (pervading all, it remains) highlights the immanence of the Supreme, suggesting that nothing exists outside its presence. The verse does not imply that the Divine literally has countless physical limbs or senses, but rather that all actions, perceptions, and experiences in the universe are ultimately expressions of this underlying Reality.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that the verse poetically conveys Brahman's omnipresence and omniscience, portraying the Supreme as the inner witness and foundation of all sensory and motor faculties. This aligns with the Upanishadic teaching 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), which means the wise Self neither takes birth nor dies, emphasizing the eternal and pervasive nature of the Divine. Meanwhile, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets the imagery as illustrating the Lord's intimate involvement with every living being, acting through all forms and senses, thus highlighting the inseparable connection between the individual soul and the Supreme. Together, these perspectives deepen the understanding that the Supreme's presence is not physical but an all-encompassing consciousness that sustains and animates the universe. This sets the stage for recognizing in daily life how our actions and perceptions can be seen as expressions of the Divine, as discussed in the following paragraph.

In modern life, this teaching can be seen in the interconnectedness of all people and living beings. For example, when we help someone in need, we are in a sense acting as the 'hands' of the Divine. When we listen with empathy, we become the 'ears' of the Supreme. In a globalized world, recognizing that the same consciousness pervades everyone can foster compassion and reduce prejudice. As a reflection exercise, consider a moment today when you interact with someone-try to see that interaction as the Divine meeting itself in another form. How does this shift your attitude or deepen your sense of connection?

𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ­đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¸đ‘Œ‚ 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩ𑌰𑍍𑌜đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 āĨ¤
𑌅𑌸𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌭𑍃𑌚𑍍𑌚𑍈đ‘Œĩ 𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ‚ đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ­đ‘‹đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘ƒ 𑌚 āĨĨ14āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯-đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖ-𑌆𑌭𑌾𑌸𑌮𑍍 - appearing as the functions of all senses
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯-đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩ𑌰𑍍𑌜đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 - yet devoid of all senses
𑌅𑌸𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 - unattached
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌭𑍃𑌤𑍍 - the sustainer of all
𑌚 - and
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed
𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ‚ - without qualities (gunas)
đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖ-𑌭𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍁 - experiencer of qualities
𑌚 - and

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
That which appears as the activity of all senses, yet is itself without any senses, remains unattached, supports everything, is beyond all qualities, and yet experiences the play of qualities.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse uses paradoxical expressions to describe the true nature of the Self or the Supreme Reality. The terms 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯-đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖ-𑌆𑌭𑌾𑌸𑌮𑍍 and 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌇𑌂đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯-đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩ𑌰𑍍𑌜đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 highlight that the Self seems to act through all the senses, yet is not limited by any of them. 𑌅𑌸𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 means it is unattached, not bound by any action or experience. 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ-𑌭𑍃𑌤𑍍 points to its role as the sustainer of all beings, while 𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ‚ and đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖ-𑌭𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍁 together show that it is beyond all qualities but still witnesses and experiences their manifestations. The verse thus presents the Self as both immanent in all activities and utterly transcendent, not affected by the world it pervades.

The nuanced expressions in this verse have been elucidated by prominent Acharyas who deepen our understanding of the Self's transcendence and immanence. 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that the Self's apparent presence in all sensory activities is a result of đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¸-superimposition-where the formless, immutable Self is mistakenly identified with the changing body and senses, thus it remains untouched and beyond all qualities. In contrast, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets the verse as affirming the Supreme's omnipresence and omnipotence, capable of performing all functions everywhere without physical organs, highlighting the Divine's all-encompassing nature that transcends material limitations. This aligns with the Upanishadic invocation 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑍋 𑌮𑌾 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ ("Lead me from darkness to light"), which signifies the journey from ignorance to the illuminating knowledge of the Self that pervades all yet remains unaffected. These perspectives build on the verse's portrayal of the Self as both immanent and transcendent, preparing us to reflect on how this understanding can be applied practically in our lives.

In modern life, this teaching can be reflected in the way we perform our roles: a leader may coordinate many actions without being directly involved in each task, or a parent may support a child's growth without controlling every experience. Similarly, technology like the internet enables countless interactions but is not itself any single message or post. As a reflection exercise, consider an area of your life where you feel overly entangled-can you recognize the part of yourself that observes and supports all your actions, yet remains untouched by their outcomes? This perspective can help cultivate inner freedom and a sense of connection to a deeper, unchanging reality.

đ‘ŒŦ𑌹đ‘Œŋ𑌰𑌂𑌤đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚 𑌭𑍂𑌤𑌾𑌨𑌾𑌮𑍍 𑌅𑌚𑌰𑌂 𑌚𑌰𑌮𑍇đ‘Œĩ 𑌚 āĨ¤
𑌸𑍂𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍍𑌮𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ đ‘ŒĻ𑍂𑌰𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌂 𑌚𑌾𑌂𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌕𑍇 𑌚 𑌤𑌤𑍍 āĨĨ15āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘ŒŦ𑌹đ‘Œŋ𑌹𑍍 - outside
𑌅𑌂𑌤𑌹𑍍 - inside
𑌚 - and
𑌭𑍂𑌤𑌾𑌨𑌾𑌮𑍍 (𑌭𑍂𑌤 + 𑌆𑌨𑌾𑌮𑍍) - of beings
𑌅𑌚𑌰𑌂 - the unmoving
𑌚𑌰𑌮𑍍 - the moving
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed
𑌚 - and
𑌸𑍂𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍍𑌮𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍 (𑌸𑍂𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍍𑌮 + 𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍) - due to subtlety
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that (the Self)
𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘ (𑌅 + đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘) - not knowable (not easily known)
đ‘ŒĻ𑍂𑌰𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌂 (đ‘ŒĻ𑍂𑌰 + 𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌮𑍍) - situated far away
𑌚 - and
𑌅𑌂𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌕𑍇 - very near
𑌚 - and
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that (the Self)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
That which exists both outside and inside all beings, which is both unmoving and moving, is so subtle that it cannot be easily known. It is far away yet also very close.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse uses several key terms to describe the nature of the Self: đ‘ŒŦ𑌹đ‘Œŋ𑌹𑍍 (outside), 𑌅𑌂𑌤𑌹𑍍 (inside), 𑌅𑌚𑌰𑌂 (unmoving), 𑌚𑌰𑌮𑍍 (moving), and 𑌸𑍂𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍍𑌮𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍 (due to subtlety). The Self is said to pervade all beings, existing both within and without, transcending the boundaries of physical forms. The phrase 'unmoving and moving' highlights that the Self is the underlying reality in both inert and active aspects of creation. Its subtlety is such that ordinary perception cannot grasp it; it is not an object that can be simply pointed out or measured. The paradox of being 'far away and very near' points to the Self's transcendence of spatial limitations, being present everywhere yet not easily recognized by those who are not inwardly attuned.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the Self, though appearing to animate all beings by its presence within and without, remains itself untouched by action, beyond all sensory and instrumental faculties. This aligns with the verse's emphasis on the Self's subtlety and transcendence of physical boundaries. đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ further clarifies that the Self is the ultimate knower who illumines the workings of the senses without being affected or limited by them, thus remaining detached yet supportive of all existence. This dual nature of being both immanent and transcendent is echoed in the Upanishadic prayer 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑍋 𑌮𑌾 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which means 'Lead me from darkness to light,' symbolizing the journey from ignorance of the Self's subtle presence to the realization of its illuminating truth. This understanding prepares us to recognize the Self's presence beyond external appearances, setting the stage for the practical reflections in the following paragraph.

In modern life, this teaching can be reflected in how we often overlook the deeper presence within ourselves and others, focusing only on external actions or appearances. For example, someone may be physically close to us but emotionally distant, or a profound insight may seem elusive until we quiet our minds. Another example is how technology connects people across the globe, making distance irrelevant, yet true understanding still requires inner connection. As a reflection exercise, consider a situation where you felt disconnected from your own deeper self or from someone else. What subtle factors made that connection seem 'far away,' and what helped bring it 'closer'? This verse invites us to look beyond surface differences and recognize the subtle, ever-present reality that unites all beings.

𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 𑌚 𑌭𑍂𑌤𑍇𑌷𑍁 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌮đ‘Œŋđ‘Œĩ 𑌚 𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 āĨ¤
𑌭𑍂𑌤𑌭𑌰𑍍𑌤𑍃 𑌚 đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ 𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌸đ‘Œŋđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ 𑌚 āĨĨ16āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 - undivided
𑌚 - and
𑌭𑍁𑌤𑍇đ‘Œļ𑍁 (𑌭𑍂𑌤𑍇𑌷𑍁) - in all beings
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 𑌇đ‘Œĩ - as if divided
𑌚 - and
𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 - situated
𑌭𑍁𑌤-𑌭𑌰𑍍𑌤𑍃 (𑌭𑍂𑌤𑌭𑌰𑍍𑌤𑍃) - the sustainer of beings
𑌚 - and
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that (the knowable)
đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¨đ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘ (đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚) - to be known
𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌸đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ (𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌸đ‘Œŋđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘) - the devourer (absorber)
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ (đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘) - the originator (producer)
𑌚 - and

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
That which is to be known appears undivided in all beings, yet seems divided among them. It is present as the sustainer of all, and is both the absorber and the source of all beings.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse uses key terms like 𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 (undivided), đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 𑌇đ‘Œĩ (as if divided), 𑌭𑍂𑌤𑌭𑌰𑍍𑌤𑍃 (sustainer of beings), 𑌗𑍍𑌰𑌸đ‘Œŋđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ (absorber), and đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌭đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ (originator) to describe the mysterious nature of the ultimate reality. The verse highlights a paradox: the supreme consciousness is present everywhere and in everything, yet it is not fragmented by the diversity of forms. It appears as if it is divided because it manifests through countless beings, but in truth, it remains whole and indivisible. This consciousness not only supports all existence but also absorbs everything at dissolution and brings forth all beings at creation. The verse invites us to contemplate how the same underlying reality can seem both one and many, both the cause and the end of all things.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the supreme self, though appearing both inside and outside all beings, remains indivisible and beyond fragmentation, much like the subtle presence that cannot be grasped by ordinary perception. He highlights that this apparent division is a result of ignorance, akin to mistaking a rope for a snake, emphasizing the self's ever-present yet misunderstood nature. đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ complements this by explaining that the supreme exists within the body and beyond it, sustaining and governing all, yet distinct from the material elements. He notes that the divine is near to those endowed with virtuous qualities and distant from those lacking them, underscoring the relational aspect of spiritual realization. This dual immanence and transcendence resonate with the Upanishadic invocation đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œž 𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which prays to be led from death to immortality, symbolizing the journey from ignorance to the realization of the undivided self. Together, these insights deepen our understanding of the paradox presented in the verse and prepare us to recognize this unity in everyday life.

In daily life, this teaching can be seen when we recognize the same spark of consciousness in ourselves and others, despite differences in appearance or personality. For example, a teacher may see unique talents in each student but knows they all share the same potential for growth. Or, in a family, members may have different roles, yet the love that binds them is one and the same. Reflect for a moment: Can you recall a time when you felt connected to someone very different from you? What was the underlying sense of unity? Try to notice today how the same awareness animates everyone you meet, and consider how this perspective might change your interactions.

đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑌾𑌮đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑌃 đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŽđ‘đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨ¤
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ 𑌹𑍃đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘Œ¯ đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 āĨĨ1𑍭āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑌾𑌮𑍍 - of all lights
𑌅đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ - even
𑌤𑌤𑍍 - that (the Knowable, Brahman)
đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - light
𑌤𑌮𑌸𑌃 - of darkness
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑍍 - beyond
đ‘Œ‰đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is said (to be)
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 - knowledge
đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ - the object to be known
đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ - attainable through knowledge
𑌹𑍃đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ - in the heart
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘Œ¯ - of all (beings)
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 - abiding, situated

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
That which is the light of all lights, said to be beyond darkness, is known as knowledge, the object to be known, and attainable through knowledge. It dwells in the heart of every being.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the supreme reality as the ultimate source of illumination, using the words đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 (light), 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑌃 đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑍍 (beyond darkness), and 𑌹𑍃đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘Œ¯ đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 (abiding in the heart of all). Here, the 'light of all lights' refers to the consciousness that enables all perception and understanding, not just physical light. By stating that this reality is 'beyond darkness,' the verse points to its transcendence over ignorance and material limitations. The phrase 'situated in the heart of all' emphasizes its immanence, meaning that this consciousness is present within every living being, regardless of external differences. The terms 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂, đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚, and đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ together indicate that this reality is not only the goal of knowledge but also the means and the process by which it is realized. Thus, the verse teaches that the ultimate truth is both the seeker, the seeking, and the sought, ever-present within all.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the supreme reality, though undivided and unchanging, appears divided among beings due to ignorance, much like one light seeming to be many when reflected in multiple surfaces. He stresses that this đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 is the inner illumination that dispels the darkness of 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑍍, aligning with the Upanishadic invocation 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑍋 𑌮𑌾 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which means 'Lead me from darkness to light,' symbolizing the journey from ignorance to knowledge. Meanwhile, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ highlights the self as the eternal supporter and sustainer of all elements within the body, distinct from the physical constituents yet intimately present, reinforcing the verse's emphasis on the supreme light abiding in the heart of all beings. These perspectives deepen the understanding that the ultimate reality is both transcendent and immanent, illuminating the path for inner realization, which naturally leads to the practical exploration of consciousness discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching can be seen in the way consciousness underlies all our experiences, whether we are aware of it or not. For example, during moments of clarity or inspiration, we might sense a lightness or insight that seems to come from within, guiding our actions beyond mere logic. Similarly, when we feel lost or overwhelmed, remembering that an inner light remains present can offer reassurance and direction. Another example is the way people from diverse backgrounds can experience empathy or understanding, hinting at a shared inner presence. As a reflection exercise, try sitting quietly and turning your attention inward, observing the awareness that witnesses your thoughts and feelings. Ask yourself: What is the source of this awareness? How does it remain constant, even as experiences change? This practice can help you connect with the 'light of all lights' described in the verse.

𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 𑌤đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ 𑌚𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌂 𑌸𑌮𑌾𑌸𑌤𑌃 āĨ¤
𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤 𑌏𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯ 𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨĨ1𑍮āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ - thus
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 - the field (body)
𑌤đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 - likewise
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 - knowledge
đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚ - the knowable
𑌚 - and
𑌉𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌮𑍍 - has been stated
𑌸𑌮𑌾𑌸𑌤𑌃 - in summary
𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌃 - my devotee
𑌏𑌤𑌤𑍍 - this
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯ - having understood
𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯ - to my nature (state of being one with me)
𑌉đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - attains

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Thus, the field, knowledge, and the knowable have been concisely explained. Whoever, being devoted to me, truly understands this, becomes fit to attain my own state of being.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse brings together the teachings on the nature of the field (𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂), knowledge (𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂), and the knowable (đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚). The word 𑌸𑌮𑌾𑌸𑌤𑌃 signals that what has been discussed so far is now being summarized. The phrase 𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌃 refers specifically to a devotee of Krishna, emphasizing the importance of devotion in this process. The term 𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯ points to attaining the divine state or nature of Krishna himself. The verse assures that by understanding these interconnected concepts, a sincere devotee becomes eligible to reach the highest spiritual realization, which is union with the divine. This is not just theoretical knowledge, but a transformative understanding that changes the aspirant's very being.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that the knowledge of the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 (field), the đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘‡đ‘Œ¯ (knower), and the 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌂 (knowable) is not mere intellectual understanding but a profound realization residing in the heart, where the devotee attains 𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯, or unity with the Supreme Self. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ emphasizes that this knowledge must be inseparably linked with devotion, as only through steadfast love and surrender can one become eligible for the Lord's grace and reach the divine state. This synthesis of knowledge and devotion is echoed in the Upanishadic prayer 𑌤𑌮𑌸𑍋 𑌮𑌾 đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which means "Lead me from darkness to light," symbolizing the aspirant's journey from ignorance to spiritual illumination. Thus, the verse highlights that true wisdom is not abstract but transformative, illuminating the heart and preparing the devotee for the highest realization, which the next paragraph will show how to apply in daily life.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied by striving to understand not just the mechanics of the world (the field), but also the deeper truths about consciousness and our relationship to the divine. For example, a scientist might study the body, but true wisdom comes from recognizing the presence of consciousness within. A person working in a stressful job can reflect on their deeper identity beyond roles and achievements, cultivating a sense of inner devotion and purpose. As a reflection exercise, consider what you identify with most: your body, your thoughts, or something deeper? Take a few minutes to contemplate how understanding your true self might change your approach to daily challenges and relationships.

đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌂 đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌂 𑌚𑍈đ‘Œĩ đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œžđ‘ŒĻ𑍀 𑌉𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ āĨ¤
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰𑌾𑌂đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚 đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚𑍈đ‘Œĩ đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌸𑌂𑌭đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌨𑍍 āĨĨ1đ‘¯āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌂 - material nature, the primordial source of matter
đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌂 - the conscious self, spirit
𑌚 - and
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed, certainly
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ - understand, know
𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻ𑍀 - beginningless, without origin
𑌉𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ - both also, both of them
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰𑌾𑌨𑍍 - modifications, transformations
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘ - qualities, attributes (sattva, rajas, tamas)
𑌚 - and
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ - understand, know
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ-𑌸𑌂𑌭đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌨𑍍 - arising from đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ, originating in material nature

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Understand that both material nature and the conscious self are without beginning. Also know that all changes and qualities arise from material nature.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the fundamental distinction and relationship between đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ (material nature) and đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 (the conscious self). Both are described as 𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻ𑍀, meaning they have no discernible beginning. The verse also introduces đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰𑌾𑌨𑍍 (modifications or transformations) and đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘ (qualities such as sattva, rajas, and tamas), clarifying that these arise specifically from đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ. The conscious self, while present alongside material nature, is not the source of these qualities or changes. This distinction is crucial for understanding the structure of existence as presented in the Gita: the interplay of the changeless self and ever-changing nature underlies all experience.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that both đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ and đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 are beginningless realities, yet only đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ is the source from which all đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌕𑌾𑌰 (modifications) and đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖ (qualities) arise, while the đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 remains untainted and distinct. This distinction is vital for spiritual discernment, as emphasized by đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯, who stresses the independence of the self from the mutable qualities of nature, affirming that the soul is untouched by the transformations occurring in đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ. Supporting this understanding, the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18) states 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍, meaning the true self neither takes birth nor dies, highlighting its eternal and immutable nature apart from the transient material modifications. Recognizing these separate origins and natures of đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ and đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 lays the foundation for detachment and self-knowledge, which prepares one to observe the fluctuations of nature without misidentification, as will be explored in the following practical reflections.

In modern life, this teaching can be seen in how we often identify ourselves with our moods, habits, or even our bodies, forgetting that these are products of material nature and not the true self. For example, when feeling anxious or restless, one might remember that these are qualities arising from đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ, not from the core consciousness. Similarly, the constant changes in our environment or relationships are modifications of nature, not of the self. As a reflection exercise, try to observe your thoughts and emotions for a day, noting which are simply passing modifications and which reflect your deeper, unchanging awareness. This practice can help cultivate inner detachment and clarity about your true identity.

đ‘Œ•đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑍇 𑌹𑍇𑌤𑍁𑌃 đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨ¤
đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌃 𑌸𑍁𑌖đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖𑌾𑌨𑌾𑌂 𑌭𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑍃𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇 đ‘Œšđ‘‡đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨĨ20āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ•đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ - effect
đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖ - instrument
𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌤𑍃𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ - agency (the state of being a doer)
𑌹𑍇𑌤𑍁𑌃 - cause
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌃 - nature (primordial matter)
đ‘Œ‰đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is said (is called)
đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌃 - the self (conscious being)
𑌸𑍁𑌖 - pleasure
đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖 - pain
𑌭𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑍃𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ - experiencership (the state of being an enjoyer or sufferer)
𑌹𑍇𑌤𑍁𑌃 - cause
đ‘Œ‰đ‘Œšđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is said (is called)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Nature is described as the source of action, the instruments of action, and the sense of agency. The self is considered the cause of experiencing pleasure and pain.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse distinguishes the roles of đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ and đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 by using terms like đ‘Œ•đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ (effect), đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖ (instrument), 𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌤𑍃𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ (agency), and 𑌭𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑍃𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ (experiencership). đ‘ŒĢ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ is identified as the source behind all physical actions, the tools or senses used to perform them, and the very sense of being a doer. In contrast, đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 is not the doer but the conscious experiencer, the one who undergoes pleasure (𑌸𑍁𑌖) and pain (đ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃𑌖). This separation clarifies that while our bodies and minds are driven by nature, the awareness that experiences outcomes is distinct and untouched by action itself.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ alone is the source of all modifications and actions, serving as the doer and cause, while đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 remains the passive witness and experiencer, untouched by the fruits of activity. This distinction reinforces the self's non-doership, emphasizing that agency belongs solely to nature. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that the transformations of đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ, such as desire and aversion, bind the self, yet the self itself is not the originator of these changes but merely the experiencer. This understanding is crucial because, as the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18) states, 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍-the true self neither takes birth nor dies nor suffers harm-highlighting its distinct, eternal nature apart from the mutable body-mind complex. Recognizing this difference between the active nature and the passive self lays the foundation for spiritual progress and prepares one to see beyond identification with transient experiences, as will be discussed in the practical implications in the next paragraph.

In daily life, this teaching can be seen when we blame ourselves for every outcome, forgetting that many factors-our bodies, minds, and circumstances-are shaped by forces beyond our conscious control. For example, when someone feels guilty for being ill or failing at a task despite sincere effort, recognizing the role of đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ can bring relief. Similarly, in moments of joy or sorrow, understanding that the self is the experiencer but not the sole cause can foster detachment and peace. As a reflection, consider a recent event where you felt responsible for an outcome. Ask yourself: which part was truly under your conscious control, and which was the play of nature? This inquiry can help cultivate clarity and reduce unnecessary self-blame or pride.

đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌃 đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑍋 𑌹đ‘Œŋ 𑌭𑍁𑌂𑌕𑍍𑌤𑍇 đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘ āĨ¤
đ‘Œ•đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ‚ đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ¸đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ—đ‘‹đ‘ŒŊđ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘Œ¯ 𑌸đ‘ŒĻ𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œŋ𑌜𑌨𑍍𑌮𑌸𑍁 āĨĨ21āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌃 - the individual self, conscious being
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ-𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌃 - situated in nature, residing in material energy
𑌹đ‘Œŋ - indeed, certainly
𑌭𑍁𑌞𑍍𑌗𑍍𑌕𑍍𑌤𑍇 - experiences, enjoys or suffers
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ-𑌜𑌾𑌨𑍍 đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘ - qualities born of nature (sattva, rajas, tamas)
đ‘Œ•đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ‚ - the cause, reason
đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖ-𑌸𑌞𑍍𑌗𑌃 - association with the qualities (attachment to the gunas)
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘Œ¯ - of this (self)
𑌸đ‘ŒĻ𑌸đ‘ŒĻ𑍍-đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œŋ-𑌜𑌨𑍍𑌮𑌸𑍁 - births in good and bad wombs (existences), in auspicious and inauspicious forms

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
The individual self, residing in material nature, certainly experiences the qualities that arise from nature. Attachment to these qualities is the cause for its birth in both favorable and unfavorable forms.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse centers on the relationship between the conscious self (đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌃) and material nature (đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ). The self, while residing in nature (đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ-𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌃), interacts with the qualities (đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘) that emerge from it. The verb 𑌭𑍁𑌞𑍍𑌗𑍍𑌕𑍍𑌤𑍇 highlights the self's role as the experiencer, not the creator, of pleasure and pain. The phrase đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖ-𑌸𑌞𑍍𑌗𑌃 points to the self's association or attachment to these qualities, which becomes the root cause (đ‘Œ•đ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ‚) for repeated births in various forms-some auspicious (𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œŋ), some not (𑌅𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œŋ). The verse thus distinguishes between the passive experience of the self and the active production of circumstances by nature, emphasizing that it is the self's identification and attachment to the qualities of nature that leads to its entanglement in the cycle of birth and death.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ is the fundamental cause of the body and its instruments, while the đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌃 is the experiencer of pleasure and pain, emphasizing the self's passive role in experiencing but not producing these effects. Complementing this, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that the self, by identifying with the body and mind, becomes the locus of experience, yet all transformations and actions arise solely from đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ. This distinction clarifies how the self's attachment to the qualities of nature (đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖ-𑌸𑌞𑍍𑌗𑌃) is the root cause of repeated births and suffering. The Upanishadic injunction 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18) supports this by affirming the eternal, unchanging nature of the self, which neither takes birth nor dies, contrasting with the transient body and qualities. This understanding bridges the verse's teaching on the self's experiential role with the practical need to recognize and transcend identification with external qualities, setting the stage for the reflection on how such attachments influence our daily lives.

In modern life, this teaching can be seen when people become deeply attached to success, status, or sensory pleasures, letting these external qualities dictate their happiness and sense of self. For example, someone who constantly seeks validation through social media may find their mood rising and falling with likes and comments, illustrating attachment to external gunas. Another example is when a person blames circumstances for their unhappiness, not realizing that their own identification with those circumstances is what causes suffering. As a reflection exercise, consider a recent situation where you felt strongly affected by praise or criticism. Ask yourself: Was it the event itself, or your attachment to the outcome, that shaped your experience? This verse invites us to observe how our identification with external qualities leads to repeated patterns and to explore the freedom that comes from recognizing our true nature as the experiencer, not the doer.

𑌉đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰𑌷𑍍𑌟𑌾đ‘ŒŊ𑌨𑍁𑌮𑌂𑌤𑌾 𑌚 𑌭𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌾 𑌭𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌾 𑌮𑌹𑍇đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌃 āĨ¤
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑍇𑌤đ‘Œŋ 𑌚𑌾đ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œƒ đ‘ŒĻ𑍇𑌹𑍇đ‘ŒŊ𑌸𑍍𑌮đ‘Œŋ𑌨𑍍đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌃 đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌃 āĨĨ22āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌉đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰𑌷𑍍𑌟𑌾 - witness
𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌮𑌂𑌤𑌾 - permitter
𑌚 - and
𑌭𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌾 - sustainer
𑌭𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌾 - experiencer
𑌮𑌹𑍇đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌃 - supreme lord
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾 - supreme self
𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ - thus
𑌚 - and
𑌅đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ - also
𑌉𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌃 - is called
đ‘ŒĻ𑍇𑌹𑍇 - in the body
𑌅𑌸𑍍𑌮đ‘Œŋ𑌨𑍍 - this
đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌃 - person (spirit)
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌃 - transcendental, higher

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Within this body, the supreme person is described as the witness, the one who permits, the supporter, the experiencer, the ultimate lord, and the supreme self. Though present in the body, this higher self remains distinct and beyond material nature.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights several key Sanskrit terms: 𑌉đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰𑌷𑍍𑌟𑌾 (witness), 𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌮𑌂𑌤𑌾 (permitter), 𑌭𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌾 (sustainer), 𑌭𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌤𑌾 (experiencer), and 𑌮𑌹𑍇đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌃 (supreme lord). These words describe the multifaceted role of the supreme self, or đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾, within the embodied being. The verse emphasizes that although the supreme self is present in the body, it is not entangled in the actions or experiences of the body and mind. Instead, it silently observes, allows actions to unfold, supports all functions, experiences the results, and ultimately governs the entire process. The distinction between the embodied soul and the supreme self is crucial, as it underlines the transcendence of the true self beyond the limitations of material nature.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates this verse by underscoring the supreme self as the 𑌉đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌰𑌷𑍍𑌟𑌾-the impartial witness-and 𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌮𑌂𑌤𑌾-the permitter-who remains untouched by the mutable experiences of the embodied soul. He highlights that the supreme self's transcendence is essential for understanding its role as the silent observer and ultimate controller, distinct from the individual soul entangled in material nature. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ emphasizes the supreme self's sovereignty as 𑌮𑌹𑍇đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌃, the supreme enjoyer and sustainer who governs the workings of the universe without being affected by its gunas or results of actions. This distinction aligns with the Upanishadic teaching 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), meaning the true self neither takes birth nor dies, nor is it subject to decay, reinforcing the supreme self's eternal and immutable nature. These insights deepen the understanding of the supreme self's multifaceted roles introduced in the first paragraph and prepare the ground for practical application, where recognizing the inner witness can help one transcend identification with transient experiences.

In modern life, this teaching can be seen in situations where we feel overwhelmed by our thoughts or emotions. By remembering the role of the inner witness, we can observe our experiences without becoming completely absorbed in them. For example, during a heated argument, recognizing the presence of an inner observer can help us pause and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Similarly, when facing success or failure, recalling that the true self is beyond these outcomes can bring a sense of peace and detachment. As a reflection exercise, try to spend a few minutes each day simply observing your thoughts and feelings as if you were an impartial witness, noticing how this perspective shifts your sense of identity and involvement.

đ‘Œ¯ 𑌏đ‘Œĩ𑌂 đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌂 đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌂 𑌚 đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ˆđ‘Œƒ 𑌸𑌹 āĨ¤
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘ŒĨ𑌾 đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌮𑌾𑌨𑍋đ‘ŒŊđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ 𑌨 𑌸 đ‘Œ­đ‘‚đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘ŒŊ𑌭đ‘Œŋđ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨĨ23āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - who
𑌏đ‘Œĩ𑌂 - thus/in this way
đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ - knows
đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌂 - the Self (spirit, conscious principle)
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌂 - material nature (primordial matter)
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ˆđ‘Œƒ - with the qualities (modes of nature)
𑌸𑌹 - together/along with
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘ŒĨ𑌾 - in every way/under all circumstances
đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌃 - existing/acting (present participle)
𑌅đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ - even though
𑌨 - not
𑌸𑌃 - he
đ‘Œ­đ‘‚đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - again
𑌅𑌭đ‘Œŋđ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is born (takes birth)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Whoever truly understands both the conscious Self and material nature, along with its qualities, and recognizes their relationship, such a person, even while living and acting in every possible way, is not born again.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse centers around the terms đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷𑌂 (the conscious Self), đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌂 (material nature), and đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘ˆđ‘Œƒ (the modes or qualities of nature). The teaching is that one who realizes the distinction and interplay between the Self and nature, and understands how the Self remains distinct from the changing qualities of nature, attains freedom from rebirth. The phrase 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘ŒĨ𑌾 đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌃 𑌅đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ emphasizes that even while performing all kinds of actions or living in any circumstance, this knowledge protects one from the cycle of birth. The key is not withdrawal from life, but clear understanding and inner detachment. The verse assures that true knowledge, not mere external renunciation, is what liberates.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the đ‘ŒĒ𑍁𑌰𑍁𑌷 is the immutable witness, distinct and uninvolved in the activities of the body and mind, which are governed by đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ and its đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖs. This witnessing nature of the Self, free from all modifications, is the foundation of liberation. Complementing this, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ stresses the necessity of discriminative knowledge that clearly distinguishes the eternal Self from the transient material nature, asserting that such discernment alone leads to freedom from rebirth. This understanding aligns with the Upanishadic injunction 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), meaning the wise Self neither takes birth nor dies, emphasizing its transcendence beyond the cycles of nature. Together, these teachings deepen the insight introduced in the first paragraph about the Self's distinctness and prepare the ground for practical application of this knowledge in daily life, as discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied by recognizing that our core identity is not defined by our changing moods, roles, or circumstances. For example, a person facing career setbacks can remember that their true Self is untouched by external success or failure. Someone dealing with family conflicts can observe their reactions as passing qualities of nature, rather than as their essential being. A reflection exercise: Take a few minutes daily to notice your thoughts and feelings as passing events, and ask yourself, 'Who is aware of these experiences?' This practice helps cultivate the inner detachment and clarity described in the verse, gradually freeing one from being bound by life's ups and downs.

đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œŋ đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ 𑌕𑍇𑌚đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑌾 āĨ¤
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡ đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ–đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ 𑌚𑌾đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑍇 āĨĨ24āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ - by meditation
𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨đ‘Œŋ - in the self
đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - perceive (they see)
𑌕𑍇𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 - some people
𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌮𑍍 - the self
𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑌾 - by the self (with the mind or intellect)
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡ - others
đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ–đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ - by Sankhya (discriminative knowledge)
đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ - by đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ— (disciplined practice)
𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌮-đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ - by 𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌮 đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ— (selfless action)
𑌚 - and
𑌅đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑍇 - yet others

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Some people realize the self within themselves through meditation. Others come to this understanding by following the path of knowledge, some through disciplined practice, and still others by selfless action.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the diversity of spiritual approaches by referencing key terms such as đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ (meditation), đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ–đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ (the path of analysis or knowledge), đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ (disciplined practice), and 𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌮-đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‡đ‘Œ¨ (selfless action). The word đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ (perceive or realize) is central, indicating that the ultimate goal-realization of the self-can be attained through different means. The phrase 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨đ‘Œŋ 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑌂 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨 poetically suggests the self is both the seeker and the sought, emphasizing introspection and self-awareness. This verse reassures seekers that there is not just one rigid path to self-realization; rather, individuals can approach the truth in ways that resonate with their nature and disposition.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that while various paths like đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨, đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ–đ‘đ‘Œ¯, đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—, and 𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌮-đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ— are valid, it is ultimately the discriminative knowledge that liberates the seeker. He highlights meditation and selfless action as essential preparatory means that purify the mind for true insight. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ stresses that liberation is accessible to all sincere practitioners, regardless of their chosen path, as long as their actions are performed with the understanding of the self's divine nature. This inclusive view is supported by the Upanishadic injunction 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), meaning the wise soul neither takes birth nor dies, underscoring the eternal reality that transcends all paths and states of being. This verse thus affirms the legitimacy of diverse spiritual disciplines, each suited to different temperaments, all leading to the vision of the self and setting the stage for practical application in daily life.

In modern life, this teaching encourages us to honor our individual inclinations. For example, someone who finds peace in meditation can pursue mindfulness practices, while another who thrives on intellectual inquiry might study philosophy or science deeply. A third person may find fulfillment in serving others selflessly, embodying 𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌮 đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ— in their daily work or volunteering. Reflect for a moment: which approach feels most natural to you right now-quiet contemplation, thoughtful analysis, or active service? Consider how you might integrate elements of the others to support your own journey toward self-understanding.

đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡ 𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑌜𑌾𑌨𑌂𑌤𑌃 đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾đ‘ŒŊđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡đ‘Œ­đ‘đ‘Œ¯ 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌸𑌤𑍇 āĨ¤
𑌤𑍇đ‘ŒŊđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ 𑌚𑌾𑌤đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¤đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡đ‘Œĩ đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘đ‘Œ‚ đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œƒ āĨĨ25āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡ - others
𑌤𑍁 - but
𑌏đ‘Œĩ𑌂 - thus (in this way)
𑌅𑌜𑌾𑌨𑌂𑌤𑌃 - those who do not know (ignorant of the true nature)
đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾 - having heard
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡ - others
đ‘Œđ‘Œ­đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - from others
𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌸𑌤𑍇 - engage in practice (worship, contemplation)
𑌤𑍇 - they
𑌅đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ - also
𑌚 - and
𑌅𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌰𑌂𑌤đ‘Œŋ - cross over (surpass, transcend)
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed
đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘đ‘Œ‚ - death (the cycle of birth and death)
đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤đ‘Œŋ-đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œƒ - devoted to what they have heard (dedicated to scriptural teachings)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Others, even without direct knowledge, hear from those who know and follow what they have learned with dedication. By sincerely practicing what the scriptures teach, they too cross beyond death and the cycle of rebirth.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the diversity of spiritual approaches by referencing key terms like đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡ (others), 𑌅𑌜𑌾𑌨𑌂𑌤𑌃 (those who do not know), đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾 (having heard), and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤đ‘Œŋ-đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œƒ (devoted to scriptural teachings). Here, Krishna acknowledges that not everyone attains realization through direct knowledge or personal experience. Some individuals, lacking deep understanding (𑌅𑌜𑌾𑌨𑌂𑌤𑌃), instead listen to teachings from others (đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾), and by faithfully adhering to these instructions, they engage in spiritual practice (𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌾𑌸𑌤𑍇). Their commitment to the guidance of sacred texts and teachers (đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍁𑌤đ‘Œŋ-đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œƒ) enables them to transcend the limitations of mortality (𑌅𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌰𑌂𑌤đ‘Œŋ đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘đ‘Œ‚). This affirms that sincere effort and trust in authentic teachings can also lead to liberation, even if one does not possess profound philosophical insight.

The teachings of 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ deepen our understanding of this verse by highlighting the inclusive nature of spiritual progress. 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that liberation is accessible not only through direct meditation or intellectual insight but also through sincere devotion to scriptural instructions, emphasizing that even those who listen and follow faithfully can transcend mortality. đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ stresses the importance of humility and receptivity, noting that individuals who may lack the qualifications for advanced yogic practices still advance by embracing the teachings they have heard from reliable sources with devotion. This aligns with the Upanishadic invocation đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œž 𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which beseeches the divine to lead one from death to immortality, symbolizing the transformative power of guidance and faith. Together, these perspectives affirm that the grace of the tradition and the earnestness of the seeker are vital, bridging the verse's recognition of diverse spiritual paths with practical application in daily life.

In modern life, this teaching is especially relevant for those who may feel overwhelmed by complex philosophies or advanced meditation techniques. For example, someone who regularly attends spiritual talks or reads sacred texts, even without fully grasping every concept, can still make progress by sincerely applying what they understand. Another example is a person who follows ethical guidelines or rituals passed down through family or community, trusting in their transformative power. A reflection exercise: Consider an area of your life where you rely on trusted guidance rather than personal expertise. How does your faith in that guidance affect your growth? This verse encourages us to honor the value of sincere practice and the wisdom of tradition, reminding us that dedication and humility can open the door to profound transformation.

đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œĩđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌕đ‘Œŋ𑌂𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 𑌸𑌤𑍍𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌂 𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌜𑌂𑌗𑌮𑌮𑍍 āĨ¤
đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘‡đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘‡đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¸đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘ 𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ 𑌭𑌰𑌤𑌰𑍍𑌷𑌭 āĨĨ26āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œĩ𑌤𑍍 - as much as, as far as
đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œžđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is born, arises
𑌕đ‘Œŋ𑌂𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 - anything, whatever
𑌸𑌤𑍍𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌂 - being, entity
𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌰 - immobile, stationary
𑌜𑌂𑌗𑌮 - mobile, moving
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 - field, body
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 - knower of the field, conscious principle
đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘ - from the union, due to the combination
𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 - that
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌧đ‘Œŋ - know, understand
𑌭𑌰𑌤𑌰𑍍𑌷𑌭 - O best of the Bharatas (Arjuna)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
O Arjuna, know that every living or non-living being that comes into existence, no matter how small, is born from the union of the field and the knower of the field.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the universal process of creation by focusing on the terms 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (the field), 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (the knower of the field), đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘ (from their union), and 𑌸𑌤𑍍𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌂 (entity or being). The verse asserts that all beings, whether 𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌰 (immobile, like plants or rocks) or 𑌜𑌂𑌗𑌮 (mobile, like animals or humans), arise from the combination of matter and consciousness. This union is not limited to only sentient beings but extends to all forms of existence, emphasizing that consciousness pervades and enlivens every aspect of the universe. The use of 𑌕đ‘Œŋ𑌂𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 (anything whatsoever) underscores the inclusivity of this principle, leaving nothing outside its scope.

The profound insight of this verse is further illuminated by the interpretations of 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ and đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯. 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ teaches that the apparent duality between 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (the field) and 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (the knower of the field) dissolves upon true knowledge, revealing the non-dual reality where consciousness and matter are inseparable aspects of the same ultimate truth. In contrast, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ emphasizes the real distinction between the individual soul and the body, asserting that their conjunction is the foundation of all empirical experience, yet the soul remains eternally distinct and independent. This dynamic interplay between unity and difference is echoed in the Upanishadic prayer đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œž 𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the đ‘ŒŦ𑍃𑌹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŖđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ• 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍, which means 'Lead me from death to immortality,' symbolizing the journey from the transient physical existence to the eternal consciousness. Recognizing this union of the physical and the conscious, as described in the first paragraph, is essential for spiritual progress and prepares one to see how this understanding applies in everyday life, as explored in the following paragraph.

In modern life, this teaching can be seen in the way every living thing, from a tree to a human, is animated by both physical components and an animating consciousness. For example, a computer is just hardware until it is powered by electricity, just as the body is inert without consciousness. Similarly, in relationships, the connection between two people is not just physical presence but the awareness and understanding they bring to each other. As a reflection exercise, consider observing a plant or animal and contemplating how its existence depends on both its physical form and the subtle presence of life or awareness. How does recognizing this union in all things influence your sense of connection to the world around you?

𑌸𑌮𑌂 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌷𑍁 𑌭𑍂𑌤𑍇𑌷𑍁 𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠𑌂𑌤𑌂 đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑍇đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌮𑍍 āĨ¤
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘Œĩđ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œ‚ đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ 𑌸 đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ āĨĨ2𑍭āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌸𑌮𑌂 - equally
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑍇𑌷𑍁 - in all
𑌭𑍂𑌤𑍇𑌷𑍁 - beings
𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠𑌂𑌤𑌂 - abiding, present
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮 𑌈đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌮𑍍 - the Supreme Lord
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¸đ‘ - in those that are perishing
𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘ŒŽđ‘ - the imperishable
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - who
đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - sees
𑌸𑌃 - he
đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - truly sees

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Whoever perceives the Supreme Lord abiding equally in all beings, remaining unchanged even as they perish, truly sees reality.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse centers on the words 𑌸𑌮𑌂 (equally), 𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑍍𑌠𑌂𑌤𑌂 (abiding), đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑍇đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌮𑍍 (Supreme Lord), and 𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘ŒŽđ‘ (imperishable). The teaching is that the Supreme Lord exists equally within all forms of life, regardless of their differences or the fact that their bodies are subject to destruction (đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌨đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¸đ‘). The Lord remains unchanged and undiminished even as individual beings are born and die. The one who recognizes this unchanging presence within the changing world is said to have true vision. This insight shifts the focus from the outer, perishable forms to the inner, eternal reality that is the same in all.

The profound insight of this verse is further illuminated by 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯, who explains that the Supreme Lord's presence in all beings is not a physical blending but a superimposition born of ignorance, where the Lord remains the unchanging witness beyond the mutable body and mind. Complementing this, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ teaches that the soul and the Supreme are inseparably united, with all beings sustained through this divine relationship, emphasizing the Lord's active role as the source and support of existence. This understanding aligns with the Upanishadic truth expressed in 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18): 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍, meaning the wise soul neither is born nor dies, highlighting the imperishable nature of the self that the Lord indwells. Recognizing this eternal presence within the transient forms, as introduced in the first paragraph, prepares one to embody this vision practically, as discussed in the following paragraph.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied by recognizing the same divine essence in all people, regardless of their background, status, or beliefs. For example, a manager can treat every employee with equal respect, seeing beyond their roles to the shared humanity within. In times of loss or change, remembering that the true self is untouched by external events can bring stability and peace. As a reflection exercise, consider a situation where you felt disconnected from someone due to differences. Pause and try to see the unchanging presence within them, just as it exists within you. How does this perspective shift your response or attitude?

𑌸𑌮𑌂 đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œšđ‘Œŋ 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑍍𑌰 𑌸𑌮đ‘Œĩ𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍀đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌮𑍍 āĨ¤
𑌨 𑌹đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ¸đ‘đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŊđ‘ŒŊ𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌂 𑌤𑌤𑍋 đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌾𑌂 𑌗𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌮𑍍 āĨĨ2𑍮āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌸𑌮𑌂 - equally
đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¨đ‘ - seeing (one who sees)
𑌹đ‘Œŋ - indeed
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑍍𑌰 - everywhere
𑌸𑌮đ‘Œĩ𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 - abiding equally, present in the same way
𑌈đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌮𑍍 - the Lord, supreme being
𑌨 - does not
𑌹đ‘Œŋ𑌨𑌸𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ - harm, destroy
𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑌾 - by oneself
𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌮𑍍 - oneself (the self)
𑌤𑌤𑌃 - then, thereafter
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - attains, goes
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌾𑌂 - supreme, highest
𑌗𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌮𑍍 - state, goal

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Whoever truly sees that the Supreme Lord is equally present in all beings and remains unchanged even as bodies perish, such a person does not harm themselves by their own actions and ultimately reaches the highest state.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse centers on the words 𑌸𑌮𑌂 (equally), 𑌸𑌮đ‘Œĩ𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌮𑍍 (abiding equally), 𑌈đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌮𑍍 (the Lord), and đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌾𑌂 𑌗𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌮𑍍 (supreme goal). The teaching is that the one who perceives the Supreme Lord as present in the same way within every living being, regardless of external differences, is the true seer. The Lord is described as imperishable, unchanging even as the bodies-subject to birth and death-come and go. Such vision leads to a state where one does not harm oneself, either through ignorance or by causing harm to others, since harming others is ultimately harming oneself. This recognition of the Lord's presence everywhere forms the basis for compassion and nonviolence, and it is this realization that leads to the supreme goal of liberation.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the true seer perceives the 𑌈đ‘Œļ𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌰𑌮𑍍 as the unchanging, imperishable reality present equally within all perishable beings, thus affirming the absolute distinction between the transient bodies and the eternal Lord. This vision transcends mere intellectual understanding and becomes a direct realization that transforms perception. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ emphasizes that recognizing the 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑍍 as the supreme ruler abiding in every body-distinct from the mutable forms-is essential for liberation, as it leads one beyond identification with the ephemeral. Supporting this, the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18) states 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍, meaning the Self is neither born nor dies, highlighting the imperishability of the true Self within all beings. This profound insight, carried forward from the verse's teaching of equal vision of the Lord, lays the foundation for compassionate and non-harming conduct, which is further explored in the following paragraph's practical applications.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied by treating everyone with equal respect, regardless of their background or status, recognizing the same divine presence in all. For example, a manager who sees their employees as equals in essence, or a student who avoids bullying because they see others as sharing the same inner self, are both embodying this wisdom. Another example is choosing not to exploit or harm others for personal gain, understanding that such actions ultimately harm oneself. As a reflection exercise, consider a recent interaction where you felt superior or inferior to someone-pause and imagine seeing the same unchanging presence within both of you. How might this shift your attitude or behavior?

đ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘ˆđ‘Œĩ 𑌚 đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋ 𑌕𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œŋ 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œļ𑌃 āĨ¤
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ 𑌤đ‘ŒĨ𑌾đ‘ŒŊđ‘ŒŊ𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌮𑍍 𑌅𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌾𑌰𑌂 𑌸 đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ āĨĨ2đ‘¯āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯ - by nature
𑌏đ‘Œĩ - indeed, only
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋ - actions (plural of 𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌮)
𑌕𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘Œŋ - being performed
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œļ𑌃 - in every way, entirely
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - whoever
đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - sees, perceives
𑌤đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 - thus, in that way
𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌮𑍍 - the self (accusative singular of 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌨𑍍)
𑌅𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌾𑌰𑌂 - as non-agent, not the doer
𑌸 - he
đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - truly sees (repeated for emphasis)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Whoever perceives that all actions are carried out entirely by nature, and recognizes the self as not the true agent, truly sees things as they are.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the distinction between the self and action by focusing on the terms đ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯ (by nature), đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋ (actions), 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌮𑍍 (the self), and 𑌅𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌾𑌰𑌂 (non-agent). The teaching is that all actions in the world are performed by the forces of nature, not by the true self. The one who understands this does not identify the self with the body or mind, nor does he claim ownership or agency over actions. Instead, he sees the self as a witness, untouched by the workings of nature. This vision leads to a profound detachment and clarity, freeing one from the sense of doership and the resulting bondage of 𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌮.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the root cause of suffering is ignorance, which leads individuals to falsely identify the 𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾𑌨𑌮𑍍 with the body and mind, thereby assuming the role of doer of đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘ŒŖđ‘Œŋ. He stresses that true wisdom arises from discerning the self as distinct and untouched by the actions performed by đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ highlights that recognizing the self as 𑌅𑌕𑌰𑍍𑌤𑌾𑌰-the non-agent-frees one from the cycle of birth and death, since the self remains uninvolved in the mutable activities of nature. This understanding aligns with the Upanishadic injunction 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), meaning the wise self neither takes birth nor dies, emphasizing its eternal and actionless nature. Together, these teachings deepen the insight introduced in the first paragraph, preparing the seeker to apply this vision practically, as discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching can help us avoid unnecessary guilt or pride over outcomes, recognizing that many factors beyond our control shape events. For example, a manager might realize that team results depend on collective effort and circumstances, not just personal leadership. A student can understand that while effort is important, results are influenced by many external factors. Reflect on a recent situation where you felt personally responsible for an outcome. Ask yourself: were all the causes really under your control, or was there a larger process at work? This reflection can foster humility and reduce anxiety, helping you act with greater wisdom and detachment.

đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĻ𑌾 𑌭𑍂𑌤đ‘ŒĒ𑍃đ‘ŒĨ𑌗𑍍𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 𑌏𑌕𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌮𑌨𑍁đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ āĨ¤
𑌤𑌤 𑌏đ‘Œĩ 𑌚 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌸𑍍𑌤𑌾𑌰𑌂 đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮 𑌸𑌂đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑌾 āĨĨ30āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĻ𑌾 - when
𑌭𑍂𑌤 - beings
đ‘ŒĒ𑍃đ‘ŒĨ𑌕𑍍-𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 - distinct existences (separate natures)
𑌏𑌕-𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌮𑍍 - situated in the One
𑌅𑌨𑍁đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - perceives, observes
𑌤𑌤𑌃 𑌏đ‘Œĩ - from that alone
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌸𑍍𑌤𑌾𑌰𑌂 - expansion, manifestation
đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮 - the Absolute, Brahman
𑌸𑌂đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - attains, reaches
𑌤đ‘ŒĻ𑌾 - then

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
When a person perceives that the separate existences of all beings are rooted in the One and that their expansion comes from that same source, then they truly attain the Absolute.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse centers on the insight that all apparent differences among beings (𑌭𑍂𑌤, đ‘ŒĒ𑍃đ‘ŒĨ𑌕𑍍-𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍) are ultimately grounded in a single underlying reality (𑌏𑌕-𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌮𑍍). The wise person recognizes that the diversity of forms and experiences is only a surface phenomenon, while the essence of all is one. The word 𑌅𑌨𑍁đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ emphasizes a deep, sustained vision, not just intellectual understanding. The verse concludes with đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮 𑌸𑌂đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡, indicating that such realization leads one to union with the Absolute. The process described is not merely theoretical; it is a transformative perception that dissolves the illusion of separateness and brings about spiritual fulfillment.

The insight of this verse is further illuminated by 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯, who emphasizes the distinction between the mutable realm of đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ and the immutable Self, asserting that true wisdom lies in perceiving all actions as performed solely by Nature, while the Self remains the non-doer. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ highlights that recognizing the expansion of all beings from the singular source and understanding the Self as devoid of agency is essential for spiritual liberation. This vision dissolves the illusion of separateness and ignorance, aligning with the Upanishadic injunction 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), which teaches that the true Self neither takes birth nor dies, underscoring its eternal and unchanging nature. Together, these perspectives deepen the understanding introduced in the first paragraph and prepare us to apply this realization practically in our daily encounters, as discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied when we encounter diversity-whether in cultures, opinions, or personalities-and remember that beneath all differences lies a common essence. For example, in a workplace with people from various backgrounds, recognizing the shared humanity can foster harmony. When facing conflict, recalling that all are expressions of the same source can reduce anger and promote understanding. As a reflection exercise, try to observe a group of people today and consciously remind yourself that their apparent differences are like waves on the same ocean. Notice how this perspective shifts your attitude and interactions.

𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌨𑍍𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍 đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œ°đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ āĨ¤
đ‘Œļ𑌰𑍀𑌰𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑍋đ‘ŒŊđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œ•đ‘Œđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡đ‘Œ¯ 𑌨 𑌕𑌰𑍋𑌤đ‘Œŋ 𑌨 𑌲đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨĨ31āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍 - due to being without beginning
𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍 - due to being without qualities
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾 - the supreme Self
đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒŽđ‘ - this (He)
𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - imperishable
đ‘Œļ𑌰𑍀𑌰𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌃 - though dwelling in the body
𑌅đ‘ŒĒđ‘Œŋ - even
đ‘Œ•đ‘Œđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡đ‘Œ¯ - O son of Kunti (Arjuna)
𑌨 𑌕𑌰𑍋𑌤đ‘Œŋ - does not act
𑌨 𑌲đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is not affected

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Because the supreme Self is without beginning and beyond material qualities, even though it resides in the body, O Arjuna, it neither acts nor is tainted by actions.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse highlights the unique nature of the đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑌾𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾 (supreme Self), using key terms like 𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍 (without beginning), 𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌤𑍍 (without qualities), and 𑌅đ‘Œĩđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ (imperishable). The text explains that although the Self appears to reside in the body (đ‘Œļ𑌰𑍀𑌰𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨ𑌃), it remains untouched by bodily actions and experiences. The Self is not a doer (𑌨 𑌕𑌰𑍋𑌤đ‘Œŋ) nor does it become entangled in the results of actions (𑌨 𑌲đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡). This distinction is crucial for understanding the difference between the eternal Self and the temporary, ever-changing body and mind. The verse reassures that the true Self is not diminished or altered by the limitations or activities of the physical form.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the Self's imperishability and freedom from action stem from its intrinsic nature as 𑌅𑌨𑌾đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍đ‘Œĩ and 𑌨đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ—đ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œĩ, meaning it is beginningless and devoid of qualities, thus untouched by the body's deeds or impurities. đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ complements this by explaining that the Self transcends the material modes of nature (đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍍𑌰𑍍𑌤đ‘Œŋ), emphasizing that the individual soul is not the true agent of action but rather the body and mind are instruments. This understanding aligns with the Upanishadic teaching 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), which affirms the Self's eternal, unchanging reality beyond birth and death. Recognizing this distinction between the Self and the body-mind complex is essential, as it not only clarifies the Self's transcendence but also prepares the seeker to apply this knowledge practically, as discussed in the following paragraph.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied when facing blame or praise for actions performed in a professional or personal setting. For example, a manager may be held responsible for a team's failure, but understanding the distinction between the true Self and the role can help maintain inner peace. Similarly, when someone feels overwhelmed by emotions or stress, remembering that the core Self remains untouched can provide comfort. As a reflection exercise, try to observe your thoughts and actions for a day, reminding yourself that your deepest identity is not defined by these outer experiences. Notice how this perspective influences your reactions and sense of well-being.

đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌗𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œđ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘ 𑌆𑌕𑌾đ‘Œļ𑌂 𑌨𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌲đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨ¤
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍋 đ‘ŒĻ𑍇𑌹𑍇 𑌤đ‘ŒĨ𑌾đ‘ŒŊđ‘ŒŊ𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾 𑌨𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌲đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ āĨĨ32āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 - just as
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌗𑌤𑌂 - all-pervading (existing everywhere)
đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œđ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘ - due to subtlety (because of being extremely subtle)
𑌆𑌕𑌾đ‘Œļ𑌂 - space (ether)
𑌨 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌲đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is not tainted (does not get attached)
𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌤𑍍𑌰 - everywhere
𑌅đ‘Œĩ𑌸𑍍đ‘ŒĨđ‘Œŋ𑌤𑌹𑍍 - situated (existing)
đ‘ŒĻ𑍇𑌹𑍇 - in the body
𑌤đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 - in the same way
𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾 - the Self
𑌨 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌲đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ - is not tainted (does not get affected)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Just as space, being extremely subtle and present everywhere, is never tainted by anything it contains, so too the Self, though present in every body, remains untouched and unaffected.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse uses the analogy of space (𑌆𑌕𑌾đ‘Œļ𑌂) to illustrate the nature of the Self (𑌆𑌤𑍍𑌮𑌾). Space is described as all-pervading (𑌸𑌰𑍍đ‘Œĩ𑌗𑌤𑌂) and extremely subtle (đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œđ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¤đ‘), which means it is present everywhere and cannot be stained or altered by anything that happens within it. Similarly, the Self, though it exists in all bodies (đ‘ŒĻ𑍇𑌹𑍇), is never tainted (𑌨 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌲đ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡) by the actions, experiences, or qualities of the body and mind. The key point is that the Self is fundamentally different from the body and its attributes; it remains pure and unchanged regardless of the circumstances it is associated with. This teaching encourages us to recognize the distinction between our true nature and the temporary conditions we experience.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains that the Self is untouched because it is 𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌰𑍍𑌗𑍁𑌨-without qualities-and thus not an agent of action, much like space remains unaffected by what occurs within it. đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ further clarifies that the Self is eternal and immutable, never subject to decay or change despite residing in the body, emphasizing its transcendence over material nature. This is supported by the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18) declaration: 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍, meaning the Self neither takes birth nor dies, nor is it subject to any transformation. This insight deepens the understanding introduced in the first paragraph, reinforcing that the Self's purity and detachment from bodily qualities form the foundation for spiritual knowledge. Recognizing this distinction prepares the seeker to apply this wisdom practically, as will be discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied when we face criticism, praise, or emotional turmoil. For example, if someone insults us, our true Self remains unaffected, just as space is not stained by smoke. Similarly, when we achieve success or suffer setbacks, our inner essence is unchanged. Another example is during meditation: even if distracting thoughts arise, the witnessing awareness is untouched. As a reflection exercise, consider a recent situation where you felt disturbed or elated. Ask yourself: Was my deepest awareness truly changed, or was it only the surface mind and emotions? This can help cultivate inner steadiness and resilience.

đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑌾đ‘Œļđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡đ‘Œ•đ‘Œƒ 𑌕𑍃𑌤𑍍𑌸𑍍𑌨𑌂 𑌲𑍋𑌕𑌮đ‘Œŋ𑌮𑌂 𑌰đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌃 āĨ¤
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌤đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 𑌕𑍃𑌤𑍍𑌸𑍍𑌨𑌂 đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑌾đ‘Œļđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ 𑌭𑌾𑌰𑌤 āĨĨ33āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
đ‘Œ¯đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 - just as
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑌾đ‘Œļđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - illuminates, makes known
𑌏𑌕𑌃 - one (single)
𑌕𑍃𑌤𑍍𑌸𑍍𑌨𑌂 - the entire, whole
𑌲𑍋𑌕𑌮𑍍 - world, universe
𑌇𑌮𑌮𑍍 - this
𑌰đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌃 - the sun
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂 - the field (body)
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍀 - the knower of the field (Self)
𑌤đ‘ŒĨ𑌾 - in the same way
𑌕𑍃𑌤𑍍𑌸𑍍𑌨𑌂 - the entire, whole
đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑌾đ‘Œļđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - illuminates, reveals
𑌭𑌾𑌰𑌤 - O descendant of Bharata (Arjuna)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Just as the single sun lights up the entire world, so too, O Arjuna, the knower of the body illuminates the whole field of the body.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse uses the imagery of the sun (𑌰đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋ𑌃) and its illuminating power (đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑌾đ‘Œļđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ) to explain the relationship between the Self (𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍀) and the body (𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌂). The sun, though one, lights up the whole world (𑌕𑍃𑌤𑍍𑌸𑍍𑌨𑌂 𑌲𑍋𑌕𑌮𑍍), and in the same way, the Self, though singular and subtle, reveals and enlivens the entire body. The analogy emphasizes that the Self is not limited by the boundaries of the body, just as sunlight is not confined to any particular object it shines upon. The Self is the witness and illuminator of all bodily experiences, but remains unaffected by them, much like the sun remains unchanged regardless of what it shines upon.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ elucidates that the Self, like the sun illuminating the entire world without being affected by it, is a pure, non-participating witness present throughout the body yet untouched by its actions or experiences. Similarly, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ emphasizes the subtlety and all-pervasiveness of the Self, comparing it to the ether (𑌅𑌕𑌸) which, though present everywhere, remains unstained by the objects it pervades. This aligns with the verse's analogy, reinforcing the Self's transcendence and purity. To deepen this understanding, the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18) states: 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍, meaning the Self neither takes birth nor dies, nor is it subject to decay. This Upanishadic insight supports the Gita's teaching that the Self is eternal and unaffected by the body's changes. Recognizing the Self's immutable nature as the ever-present illuminator prepares us to apply this wisdom practically, as discussed in the following paragraph.

In daily life, this teaching can help us remember that our true nature is not affected by the ups and downs of physical or emotional experiences-just as the sun is not changed by the things it illuminates. For example, when facing criticism at work, one can reflect that the inner Self remains untouched by external opinions. Similarly, during illness, recognizing that the body is merely the field and not the real Self can bring calm. As a reflection exercise, try to observe your thoughts and feelings for a few minutes each day, asking yourself: Who is aware of these experiences? This can help cultivate the perspective of the witness Self described in this verse.

đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘‡đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ•đ‘đ‘Œˇđ‘‡đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘‡đ‘Œĩ𑌮𑍍 𑌅𑌂𑌤𑌰𑌂 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨𑌚𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍁𑌷𑌾 āĨ¤
𑌭𑍂𑌤đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ𑌮𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌷𑌂 𑌚 đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ 𑌤𑍇 đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑍍 āĨĨ34āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 - the field (body or matter)
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 - knower of the field (conscious self)
đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œšđ‘‹ - of the two (genitive dual, 'of kShetra and kShetraj~na')
𑌏đ‘Œĩ𑌂 - thus, in this way
𑌅𑌂𑌤𑌰𑌂 - distinction, difference
𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨-𑌚𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍁𑌷𑌾 - with the eye of knowledge (by spiritual insight)
𑌭𑍂𑌤-đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ-𑌮𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌷𑌂 - the liberation from the nature of beings (release from material nature)
𑌚 - and
đ‘Œ¯đ‘‡ - those who
đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻ𑍁𑌃 - know, understand
đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ¤đ‘Œŋ - attain, reach
𑌤𑍇 - they
đ‘ŒĒ𑌰𑌮𑍍 - the supreme (goal, reality)

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Those who, through the eye of wisdom, recognize the true distinction between the field and the knower of the field, and also understand how beings are bound and liberated from material nature, they alone reach the highest reality.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This verse brings together several key concepts from the chapter, especially the terms 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (the field), 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (the knower of the field), 𑌅𑌂𑌤𑌰𑌂 (distinction), and 𑌜𑍍𑌞𑌾𑌨-𑌚𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍁𑌷𑌾 (the eye of knowledge). The field refers to the body and all material phenomena, while the knower is the conscious self that perceives and experiences. The distinction between these two is not obvious to ordinary perception; it requires inner vision or wisdom. The verse also mentions 𑌭𑍂𑌤-đ‘ŒĒ𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍃𑌤đ‘Œŋ-𑌮𑍋𑌕𑍍𑌷𑌂, pointing to the process by which beings are entangled in, and can be freed from, the influence of material nature. Only those who truly understand these distinctions and processes, not just intellectually but through deep realization, can attain the ultimate goal.

The illumination of the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 by the 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 is a profound metaphor that 𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ explains as the self's singular, unchanging light that pervades all bodies yet remains untouched by them, much like the sun that shines on all without being sullied. He underscores the self's transcendence beyond the physical and mental layers, emphasizing its immutable nature. Meanwhile, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 𑌮𑌧𑍍đ‘Œĩđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets this verse as a directive to discriminate between the transient material field and the eternal knower, highlighting the practical necessity of this knowledge for liberation. This discernment aligns with the Upanishadic injunction 𑌨 đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ 𑌮𑍍𑌰đ‘Œŋđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œ¤đ‘‡ đ‘Œĩ𑌾 đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĒđ‘Œļ𑍍𑌚đ‘Œŋ𑌤𑍍 from the 𑌕𑌠𑍋đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷đ‘ŒĻ𑍍 (1.2.18), which declares that the true self neither takes birth nor dies, nor is it subject to decay. Together, these teachings deepen the understanding introduced in the first paragraph about the distinction between the field and its knower, preparing the seeker to apply this insight practically, as discussed next.

In modern life, this teaching can be applied by recognizing that our true identity is not limited to our physical body or our thoughts. For example, when facing criticism at work, remembering the distinction between the 'field' (the situation, the emotions) and the 'knower' (the inner observer) can help maintain equanimity. Similarly, when caught up in material pursuits, understanding how attachment binds us can inspire us to seek inner freedom. As a reflection exercise, try to observe your thoughts and feelings for a few minutes each day, asking yourself: Who is aware of these experiences? This practice can gradually reveal the difference between the experiencer and the experiences, leading to greater clarity and peace.

āĨĨ 𑌓𑌂 𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌸đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ𑌤đ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌗đ‘Œĩđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌗𑍀𑌤𑌾𑌸𑍁 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑌤𑍍𑌸𑍁 đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚
đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œļ𑌾𑌸𑍍𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍇 đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¨đ‘Œ¸đ‘Œ‚đ‘Œĩ𑌾đ‘ŒĻ𑍇 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œ­đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘‹ 𑌨𑌾𑌮 đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œļ𑍋đ‘ŒŊđ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ āĨĨ

Meaning (đ‘ŒĒđ‘ŒĻ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
𑌓𑌂 - primordial syllable, sacred invocation
𑌤𑌤𑍍𑌸𑌤𑍍 - that which is true, ultimate reality
𑌇𑌤đ‘Œŋ - thus, in this way
đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀𑌮đ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌭𑌗đ‘Œĩđ‘ŒĻ𑍍𑌗𑍀𑌤𑌾𑌸𑍁 - in the revered Bhagavad Gita
𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑌤𑍍𑌸𑍁 - among the Upanishads (as spiritual dialogues)
đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ‚ - in the knowledge of Brahman, spiritual wisdom
đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œļ𑌾𑌸𑍍𑌤𑍍𑌰𑍇 - in the scripture of đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—, discipline of union
đ‘Œļđ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘€đ‘Œ•đ‘ƒđ‘Œˇđ‘đ‘ŒŖđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘đ‘Œ¨ 𑌸𑌂đ‘Œĩ𑌾đ‘ŒĻ𑍇 - in the dialogue between Sri Krishna and Arjuna
𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œ­đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œƒ - the đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ— of distinction between the field and the knower of the field
𑌨𑌾𑌮 - named, called
đ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ°đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œļ𑌃 đ‘Œ…đ‘Œ§đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œžđ‘Œ¯đ‘Œƒ - thirteenth chapter

Translation (𑌭𑌾đ‘Œĩ𑌾𑌰𑍍đ‘ŒĨ):
Thus ends the thirteenth chapter, called The Yoga of the Distinction between the Field and the Knower of the Field, in the revered Bhagavad Gita, which is a dialogue between Sri Krishna and Arjuna, and is a scripture of yoga and knowledge of the ultimate reality, among the Upanishads.

Commentary (𑌅𑌨𑍁𑌸𑌂𑌧𑌾𑌨):
This concluding colophon summarizes the chapter and its context. The key terms here are 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (field), 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (knower of the field), đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—đ‘Œļ𑌾𑌸𑍍𑌤𑍍𑌰 (scripture of đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ—), and đ‘ŒŦ𑍍𑌰𑌹𑍍𑌮đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘ŒĻđ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘Œž (knowledge of Brahman). The chapter is identified as a dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, emphasizing its didactic nature. The phrase 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞đ‘Œĩđ‘Œŋđ‘Œ­đ‘Œžđ‘Œ—đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ— highlights the main theme: distinguishing between the physical body and the conscious self. The mention of 𑌉đ‘ŒĒ𑌨đ‘Œŋ𑌷𑌤𑍍𑌸𑍁 places the Gita within the tradition of spiritual inquiry found in the Upanishads, suggesting its teachings are not just practical but also deeply philosophical and metaphysical.

𑌆đ‘ŒĻđ‘Œŋ đ‘Œļđ‘Œ‚đ‘Œ•đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ interprets the distinction between 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰 (the field) and 𑌕𑍍𑌷𑍇𑌤𑍍𑌰𑌜𑍍𑌞 (the knower of the field) through the lens of Advaita Vedanta, emphasizing the essential non-duality of the self beyond the transient body. He relates this to the Upanishadic invocation đ‘ŒŽđ‘ƒđ‘Œ¤đ‘đ‘Œ¯đ‘‹đ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œž 𑌅𑌮𑍃𑌤𑌂 đ‘Œ—đ‘ŒŽđ‘Œ¯ from the Bhadrayaka Upanishad, which means 'Lead me from death to immortality,' highlighting the journey from identification with the perishable body to realization of the imperishable consciousness. In contrast, đ‘Œļ𑍍𑌰𑍀 đ‘Œ°đ‘Œžđ‘ŒŽđ‘Œžđ‘Œ¨đ‘đ‘Œœđ‘Œžđ‘Œšđ‘Œžđ‘Œ°đ‘đ‘Œ¯ presents a qualified non-dualism where the soul and body are distinct yet inseparably related, with both ultimately dependent on the Supreme Lord. This understanding deepens the chapter's teaching by showing how discriminative knowledge of the field and its knower is foundational not only for metaphysical insight but also for practical spiritual progress. Such clarity prepares the seeker to apply these truths in daily life, as discussed in the following paragraph.

In modern life, the distinction between the body and the conscious self can help us manage stress and anxiety, reminding us that our true identity is not limited to physical experiences. For example, someone facing a health challenge can reflect on being more than just their body, finding strength in their inner awareness. In another case, a person overwhelmed by work pressures might use this teaching to step back and observe their thoughts, recognizing the witness within. As a reflection exercise, take a few minutes to sit quietly and notice the difference between your physical sensations and the awareness that observes them. This practice can foster clarity and resilience in everyday challenges.




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