Chapter 18, Verse 21
पृथक्त्वेन तु यज्ज्ञानं नानाभावान्पृथग्विधान् | वेत्ति सर्वेषु भूतेषु तज्ज्ञानं विद्धि राजसम् ॥21॥
pṛthaktvena tu yajjñānaṁ nānā-bhāvān pṛthak-vidhān | vetti sarveṣu bhūteṣu taj-jñānaṁ viddhi rājasam
"But know that knowledge to be originating from rajas which, amidst all things, apprehends the different entities of various kinds as distinct."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.21 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.21 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
Shree Krishna explains the nature of Rājasic knowledge. While Sāttvic knowledge seeks the underlying unity in diversity, Rājasic knowledge gets lost in the diversity itself. It perceives living beings as fundamentally separate and distinct based on their physical bodies, labels, and external attributes. This fragmented view leads to a sense of 'I' vs 'Them,' giving rise to divisions of race, creed, and status, and losing sight of the common spiritual thread that binds all existence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 18.21?
But know that knowledge to be originating from rajas which, amidst all things, apprehends the different entities of various kinds as distinct.