Bhagavad Gita 3.36

Understanding Bhagavad Gita 3.36: The Nature of Sin and Desire

Sanskrit Verse:

अर्जुन उवाच |
अथ केन प्रयुक्तोऽयं पापं चरति पूरुषः |
अनिच्छन्नपि वार्ष्णेय बलादिव नियोजितः ॥ ३.३६ ॥

Transliteration:

arjuna uvāca |
atha kena prayukto’yaṁ pāpaṁ carati pūruṣaḥ |
anicchannapi vārṣṇeya balādiva niyojitaḥ || 3.36 ||

Translation:

Arjuna asked: "O Vārṣṇeya (Krishna), by what is a person impelled to commit sin, even unwillingly, as if engaged by force?"

अर्जुन ने पूछा: "हे वार्ष्णेय (कृष्ण), कौन सी बात मनुष्य को पाप करने के लिए प्रेरित करती है, चाहे वह अनिच्छा से भी क्यों न हो, मानो उसे बलपूर्वक प्रेरित किया गया हो ?"

Explanation:

This verse is a pivotal moment in the Bhagavad Gita, where Arjuna raises a crucial philosophical and psychological question: Why do humans commit sinful actions even when they do not wish to? This inquiry delves into the fundamental struggle between free will and compulsion, between dharma (righteousness) and adharma (unrighteousness).

Key Themes in This Verse:

1. The Inner Conflict of Human Beings:
   Arjuna is perplexed by the observation that people often act against their own better judgment. Even when aware of the consequences, they find themselves trapped in actions they wish to avoid.

2. The Force of Uncontrollable Impulses:
   The phrase "balād iva niyojitaḥ" (as if forced by a powerful force) suggests that there is a compelling energy that drives individuals towards sinful acts. This force appears overwhelming, making a person feel powerless.

3. The Nature of Desire and Attachment:
   Krishna answers this question in the next verse (3.37), explaining that kāma (desire) and krodha (anger) arising from rajo-guna (the mode of passion) are the primary forces that drive people toward sinful actions. These impulses cloud judgment and compel one toward immoral behavior.

Relevance to Modern Life:

This verse is profoundly relevant in contemporary times. Many individuals struggle with habits and actions they know are harmful, whether it be addiction, procrastination, or unethical choices. The battle between what we ought to do and what we are tempted to do is a universal human experience. Recognizing the role of desire and anger in our decision-making process can help us cultivate self-awareness and self-discipline.

Conclusion:

Arjuna’s question lays the foundation for understanding the psychology of human behavior and the need for self-control. The Bhagavad Gita, through Krishna’s wisdom, provides guidance on overcoming impulsive tendencies by developing inner strength and spiritual awareness. By controlling desires and emotions, one can align their actions with higher wisdom and dharma.

This verse invites us to introspect: What forces drive our actions? How can we cultivate self-mastery? The answers lie in understanding our inner nature and striving for self-discipline and spiritual growth.