Chapter 18, Verse 25
अनुबन्धं क्षयं हिंसामनपेक्ष्य च पौरुषम् | मोहादारभ्यते कर्म यतत्तामसमुच्यते ॥25॥
anubandhaṁ kṣhayaṁ hiṁsām anapekṣhya cha pauruṣham | mohād ārabhyate karma yat tat tāmasam uchyate
"That action is declared to be in the mode of ignorance which is undertaken through delusion, without heed to the consequences, loss, injury to others, or one's own ability."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.25 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.25 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
Action in the mode of darkness (Tamas) is characterized by a complete lack of foresight and discernment. The perpetrator ignores four critical factors: 'Anubandham' (the future binding consequences or karmic debt), 'Kshayam' (the loss of energy, wealth, or resources), 'Himsam' (the violence or distress caused to other living beings), and 'Paurusham' (one's own actual capacity to complete the task). Driven by 'Moha' (delusion), such actions are impulsive and destructive, leading to a decay of the self and the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 18.25?
That action is declared to be in the mode of ignorance which is undertaken through delusion, without heed to the consequences, loss, injury to others, or one's own ability.