Chapter 18, Verse 35
यया स्वप्नं भयं शोकं विषादं मदमेव च | न विमुञ्चति दुर्मेधा धृति: सा पार्थ तामसी ॥35॥
yayā svapnaṃ bhayaṃ śokaṃ viṣādaṃ madameva ca | na vimuñcati durmedhā dhṛti: sā pārtha tāmasī ||
"That firmness is considered to be born of tamas due to which a person with a corrupt intellect does not give up sleep, fear, sorrow, despondency as also sensuality."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.35 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 18.35 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
Determination (Dhṛti) is the power of will. In the mode of ignorance (Tamas), this will-power is perverted into stubbornness. A 'durmedhā' (one with clouded intellect) uses their resolve to cling to negative habits like oversleeping, chronic fear, past grievances, and self-pity. Instead of using determination to progress, they use it to remain stuck in a cycle of suffering and delusion, often mistaking this obstinacy for a core part of their identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 18.35?
That firmness is considered to be born of tamas due to which a person with a corrupt intellect does not give up sleep, fear, sorrow, despondency as also sensuality.