Bhagavad Gita 3.34

 

Understanding Bhagavad Gita 3.34: The Nature of Likes and Dislikes

Sanskrit Verse:

इन्द्रियस्येन्द्रियस्यार्थे रागद्वेषौ व्यवस्थितौ।
तयोर्न वशमागच्छेत्तौ ह्यस्य परिपन्थिनौ॥

Transliteration:

Indriyasyendriyasyārthe rāga-dveṣau vyavasthitau
Tayor na vaśam āgacchet tau hy asya paripanthinau

Meaning of the Verse

In this verse from the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 3, Verse 34), Lord Krishna explains the fundamental nature of human tendencies—attachment (rāga) and aversion (dveṣa). These emotions are deeply ingrained in our senses and influence our actions. However, Krishna advises that one should not come under their control because they act as great obstacles on the path of self-realization.

Breakdown of the Verse

• Indriyasya indriyasyārthe – The senses are naturally attracted to their respective objects.
• Rāga-dveṣau vyavasthitau – Attachment (rāga) and aversion (dveṣa) are inherent in these interactions.
• Tayor na vaśam āgacchet – One should not come under their sway.
• Tau hy asya paripanthinau – Because they are his enemies (obstacles in the spiritual path).

Philosophical Interpretation

1. The Role of Rāga (Attachment) and Dveṣa (Aversion)

Human beings are naturally inclined to seek pleasure and avoid pain. Our senses are constantly drawn toward what we like and repelled by what we dislike. However, uncontrolled desires and aversions lead to bondage and suffering.

2. Senses as Obstacles

Krishna calls attachment and aversion "paripanthinau" (enemies), meaning they obstruct spiritual progress. If a person blindly follows their sensory cravings, they become enslaved by material temptations and lose sight of their higher self.

3. The Path to Liberation

A wise person learns to observe desires and aversions without being controlled by them. This detachment, known as vairagya, leads to inner peace and self-mastery. Krishna's teaching aligns with the concept of equanimity (samatva), where one remains unaffected by external circumstances.

Practical Application in Daily Life

1. Mindful Awareness – Observe your likes and dislikes without impulsively acting on them.
2. Self-Control (Dama) – Practice moderation in sensory pleasures to avoid attachment.
3. Detachment (Vairagya) – Recognize that external objects do not bring lasting happiness.
4. Balanced Decision-Making – Instead of acting based on emotions, use wisdom and discernment.

Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 3.34 offers a profound lesson on self-discipline. It teaches that the path to inner freedom lies in overcoming the dualities of attachment and aversion. By mastering these impulses, one can progress toward self-realization and lasting peace.

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