Chapter 16, Verse 4
दम्भो दर्पोऽभिमानश्च क्रोध: पारुष्यमेव च | अज्ञानं चाभिजातस्य पार्थ सम्पदमासुरीम् ॥4॥
dambho darpo 'bhimānaś ca krodhaḥ pāruṣyam eva ca | ajñānaṁ cābhijātasya pārtha sampadam āsurīm
"O son of Prtha, the attributes of one born with a demoniac nature are hypocrisy, pride, self-conceit, anger, harshness, and ignorance."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 16.4 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 16.4 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
Lord Krishna identifies six primary negative traits (Asuric Sampat) that characterize a person of demoniac nature. 'Dambha' is religious ostentation or hypocrisy—acting virtuous for show. 'Darpa' is pride in one's temporary material achievements. 'Abhimana' is an exaggerated sense of self-importance or haughtiness. 'Krodha' is anger arising from unfulfilled desires. 'Parusyam' is harshness in speech and behavior. Finally, 'Ajnanam' is the spiritual ignorance that prevents one from distinguishing right from wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 16.4?
O son of Prtha, the attributes of one born with a demoniac nature are hypocrisy, pride, self-conceit, anger, harshness, and ignorance.