Loading...
Current layer: Translation
Chapter 14 • Verse 23
The Yoga of the Division of the Three Gunas
MEANING & CONTEXT
Krishna continues describing the characteristics of one who has transcended: 'Udāsīna-vad āsīno guṇair yo na vicālyate'—he who, seated like one unconcerned (udāsīna-vat āsīnaḥ), is not moved (na vicālyate) by the gunas (guṇaiḥ). 'Guṇā vartanta ity evaṁ yo 'vatiṣṭhati neṅgate'—who, knowing that the gunas are active (guṇā vartante), remains firm (avatiṣṭhati) and does not waver (neṅgate). This is the position of transcendence: like an unconcerned observer, you watch the gunas play without being moved by them. You know they're active, you observe them, but you remain firm and steady. You don't waver, you don't get pulled into their drama. You maintain your position as the witness, separate from the play of the gunas.
Explore Human Experiences
How this ancient wisdom applies to your daily life
Key Takeaway
Krishna reveals that one who has transcended remains unmoved by the gunas, like an unconcerned observer. You watch the gunas play without being moved by them. You know they're active, you observe them, but you remain firm and steady. You don't waver, you don't get pulled into their drama. You maintain your position as the witness, separate from the play of the gunas. This is the position of transcendence: not being reactive, not being pulled into the drama, but remaining steady and observing. Understanding this helps you develop the witness consciousness—the ability to observe the gunas without being moved by them.
Personal Reflection
Do you get moved by the gunas? Do you waver when different modes are active? How would developing the position of the witness help you find stability?
Shortcuts
←/→ Verses
↑/↓ Layers