Bhagavad Gita 4.40

 

Understanding Bhagavad Gita 4.40: The Importance of Faith and Knowledge

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred scripture of Hindu philosophy, provides profound wisdom on life, duty, and spirituality. Chapter 4, Verse 40, emphasizes the significance of faith and knowledge in one's spiritual journey while warning against ignorance and doubt.

Sanskrit Verse 4.40

अज्ञश्चाश्रद्दधानश्च संशयात्मा विनश्यति |
नायं लोकोऽस्ति न परो न सुखं संशयात्मन: ||

Transliteration

ajñaśh chāśhraddadhānaśh cha sanśhayātmā vinaśhyati
nāyaṁ loko ‘sti na paro na sukhaṁ sanśhayātmanaḥ

Translation

One who is ignorant, lacks faith, and is filled with doubt perishes. Neither this world nor the next nor happiness exists for a person with a doubtful mind.

" जो अज्ञानी है, श्रद्धाहीन है, तथा संशय से भरा है, वह नष्ट हो जाता है। संशयी मन वाले मनुष्य के लिए न तो यह लोक है, न परलोक, न ही सुख। "

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Explanation

This verse highlights three major obstacles to spiritual progress:

1. Ajnana (Ignorance):

   • Ignorance refers to a lack of true knowledge about the self, dharma (duty), and the divine.
   • Without knowledge, a person remains trapped in illusion (Maya) and fails to understand the purpose of life.

2. Ashraddha (Lack of Faith):

   • Even if one hears about spiritual truths, without faith, they will not be internalized.
   • Faith acts as the foundation for acquiring higher wisdom.

3. Samshayatma (Doubtful Mind):

• Doubt leads to confusion and prevents one from taking decisive action.
• A person who constantly doubts spiritual teachings cannot find peace or happiness.

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Relevance in Modern Life

• Personal Growth: Believing in oneself and one's path is essential for success. Doubts can hold us back from achieving our full potential.
• Decision Making: Clear thinking and faith in righteous action help in making better life choices.
• Spiritual Progress: To attain inner peace and ultimate realization, one must have faith in divine wisdom and work towards self-awareness.

This verse teaches that to achieve true happiness and progress—both materially and spiritually—one must seek knowledge, cultivate faith, and overcome doubt.

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