Chapter 18, Verse 27
रागी कर्मफलप्रेप्सुर्लुब्धो हिंसात्मकोऽशुचि: |
हर्षशोकान्वित: कर्ता राजस: परिकीर्तित: ॥ 27॥
rāgī karma-phala-prepsur lubdho hiṁsātmako ’śhuciḥ |
harṣha-śhokānvitaḥ kartā rājasaḥ parikīrtitaḥ ||
"The doer who is passionate, who seeks the fruits of action, who is greedy, cruel, impure, and moved by joy and sorrow, is declared to be of the nature of passion (Rajas)."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.27 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.27 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
In this verse, Shri Krishna defines the Rajasic agent (Kartā). Unlike the Sattvic worker who acts with detachment and equanimity, the Rajasic individual is driven by 'Raga' (intense attachment and passion). They are obsessed with 'Karma-phala' (the results), often leading to 'Lubdha' (greed) and 'Ashuchi' (impurity of methods or mind). Because their self-worth is tied to external outcomes, they live on an emotional rollercoaster of 'Harsha' (exaltation) and 'Shoka' (grief). Their competitive nature may even lead to 'Himsatmaka' (harmful or envious tendencies) towards others who stand in their way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 18.27?
The doer who is passionate, who seeks the fruits of action, who is greedy, cruel, impure, and moved by joy and sorrow, is declared to be of the nature of passion (Rajas).