The Gita – Chapter 18 – Shloka 22

The Gita – Chapter 18 – Shloka 22

Shloka 22

However dear Arjuna, if one selfishly views one particular thing (namely the body) as if it is all and everything that is to be concerned about, the knowledge he possesses does not allow him to see beyond the perishable objects and beings in this world. He considers himself the one and only, independent, and seperate from all other beings in this world.

This being, O Arjuna, possesses the TAMSIC knowledge of darkness that is clouded by ignorance. (The being that possesses this knowledge does not realize that there is an entity that is beyond the realm of mortal human beings. He is ignorant of the fact that the Lord is the indestructible Entity or Divine Form, above all beings in this world.

This being cares about nothing more than keeping the body comfortable, and devotes his whole life to satisfying the needs of his own body. He looks upon God as a destructible object and is ignorant of the fact that the Lord is not a perishable entity but a Super-Soul and the Eternal Spirit who is much higher than any human).

परन्तु जो ज्ञान एक कार्य रूप शरीर में ही सम्पूर्ण के सदृश आसक्त्त है तथा जो बिना युक्त्ति वाला, तात्विक अर्थ से रहित और तुच्छ है —- वह तामस कहा गया है ।। २२ ।।

Moksha–Sanyasa yoga -18