Chapter 18, Verse 24
यत्तु कामेप्सुना कर्म साहङ्कारेण वा पुन: | क्रियते बहुलायासं तद्राजसमुदाहृतम् ॥24॥
yattu kāmeksunā karma sāhaṅkāreṇa vā punaḥ | kriyate bahulāyāsaṃ tad rājasam udāhṛtam
"But that action is said to be born of rajas which is done by one desirous of results or by one who is egotistic, and which is highly strenuous."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.24 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.24 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
This verse defines Rajasic action (action in the mode of passion). Such actions are characterized by three distinct markers: 1) Being driven by selfish desires (Kāmepsunā), 2) Being fueled by a strong sense of 'I-ness' or ego (Sāhaṅkāreṇa), and 3) Requiring an exhausting amount of effort and strain (Bahulāyāsam). While Sattvic action is performed with mental peace and detachment, Rajasic action leads to high stress, anxiety, and eventual burnout because the individual is overly attached to the fruit of their labor and their self-image.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 18.24?
But that action is said to be born of rajas which is done by one desirous of results or by one who is egotistic, and which is highly strenuous.