Chapter 13, Verse 20
प्रकृतिं पुरुषं चैव विद्ध्यनादी उभावपि | विकारांश्च गुणांश्चैव विद्धि प्रकृतिसम्भवान् ॥20॥
prakṛitiṁ puruṣhaṁ chaiva viddhy anādī ubhāv api
vikārānśh cha guṇānśh chaiva viddhi prakṛiti-sambhavān
"Know both Nature and also the individual soul to be verily without beginning; know the modifications as also the qualities as born of Nature."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 13.20 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 13.20 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
This verse establishes the ontological status of Prakriti (Material Nature) and Purusha (the Individual Soul/Conscious Entity). Both are described as 'Anadi' (beginningless), being eternal energies of the Supreme Lord. While the Purusha is the sentient observer, Prakriti is the insentient energy responsible for all transformations (Vikaras) like birth, growth, and death, as well as the three modes (Gunas) — Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. Understanding this distinction helps the seeker realize that while the body and mind undergo constant change, the core self remains the eternal witness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 13.20?
Know both Nature and also the individual soul to be verily without beginning; know the modifications as also the qualities as born of Nature.