Bhagavad Gita on Desire

Teachings from Bhagavad Gita on Desire

He who is able, while still here (in this world) to withstand, before the liberation from the body (death), the impulse born out of desire and anger, he is a YOGIN , he is a happy man. (5.23)

He should be known as a perpetual SAMNYASI who neither hates nor desires; for, free from the pairs-of-opposites, O Mighty-armed, he is easily set free from bondage. (5.3)

When a man completely casts off, O Partha, all the desires of the mind, and is satisfied in the Self by the Self, then is he said to be one of steady Wisdom. (2.55)

That man attains peace who, abandoning all desires, moves about without longing, without the sense of 'l-ness' and 'my-ness. ' (2.71)

Whose undertakings are all devoid of desires and purposes, and whose actions have been burnt by the Fire-of-Knowledge, him the "wise" call a Sage. (4.19)

He who neither rejoices, nor hates, nor grieves, nor desires, renouncing good and evil, full of devotion, is dear to Me. (12.7)

Teachings From Bhagavad Gita On Desire

The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as the Gita, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. It is a profound philosophical and spiritual text that addresses various aspects of life, including desire. Here are some teachings from the Bhagavad Gita regarding desire:

Understanding Desire: The Gita acknowledges that desire is an inherent aspect of human nature. Krishna, the divine charioteer and teacher, explains to Arjuna, the warrior prince, that desire is not inherently good or bad; it is the attachment to desires that leads to suffering.

Detachment from Fruits of Actions: One of the central teachings of the Gita regarding desire is the concept of "Nishkama Karma," which means performing actions without attachment to the fruits of those actions. Krishna advises Arjuna to fulfill his duties as a warrior but to renounce attachment to the outcomes of his actions. By doing so, one can attain inner peace and freedom from the cycle of desire and its associated suffering.

Desire and Dharma: The Gita emphasizes the importance of following one's dharma, or duty, while managing desires. Krishna advises Arjuna to fulfill his duty as a warrior, which involves fighting in the righteous war, without being swayed by desires such as fear, attachment, or aversion. By aligning one's actions with dharma, desires can be channeled in a positive and constructive manner.

Desire and Renunciation: While the Gita teaches detachment from the fruits of actions, it does not advocate complete renunciation of desires or worldly life. Instead, it encourages individuals to engage in the world while maintaining an attitude of detachment. Renunciation, in the Gita, refers to renouncing attachment to desires, not necessarily withdrawing from worldly responsibilities.

Transcending Desires through Yoga: The Gita offers various paths of yoga (spiritual practice) as a means to transcend desires and attain liberation (moksha). These paths include Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless action), Bhakti Yoga (the yoga of devotion), Jnana Yoga (the yoga of knowledge), and Raja Yoga (the yoga of meditation). Through disciplined practice and spiritual realization, one can gradually overcome desires and attain spiritual enlightenment.

In summary, the Bhagavad Gita teaches that desires are natural but can lead to suffering when one becomes excessively attached to them. By practicing detachment, fulfilling one's duties, and following a spiritual path, one can transcend desires and attain inner peace and liberation.