Bhagavad Gita Chapter 18 – Verses 36 to 39 explains the concept of threefold happiness.
That happiness one learns to enjoy by practice,
That happiness one learns to enjoy by practice,
By which one comes to the end of pain.
That happiness is Sattvika.
Which is born from enlightenment or self realization,
And which is said to be poison in the beginning,
But which becomes sweet like nectar in the end.
That happiness, pleasure and exultation is Rajasika,
Which arises from the contact between the senses and
objects,
And which is said to be sweet like nectar in the beginning,
But which turns into bitter gall in the end.
That brutal pleasure and excitement is Tamasika,
Which results from excessive sleep, lethargy, and
miscomprehension,
And which keeps the Atman deluded from the beginning till
the end.Additional Information And Explanation:
The Bhagavad Gita’s teachings on threefold happiness in Chapter 18, Verses 36 to 39, provide profound insight into the nature of happiness and its implications for human behavior and spiritual progress. By categorizing happiness into three types—Sattvika, Rajasika, and Tamasika—the Gita highlights the varying paths individuals take in pursuit of joy and fulfillment, showing how each form of happiness impacts their mind, soul, and overall life journey. Let's expand on these concepts and explore their deeper symbolism, relevance, and practical application in modern life.
1. Sattvika Happiness (Pure, Enlightened Happiness)
Gita Verses 36-37:
"That happiness which is like poison at first, but in the end, is like nectar, which comes as a result of self-realization and enlightenment, that happiness is said to be Sattvika."
Symbolism:
- Sattva represents purity, harmony, and balance. Sattvika happiness is akin to spiritual joy, which emerges from self-discipline, introspection, and a higher understanding of one’s purpose.
- It is the type of happiness that comes from inner contentment, often achieved through meditation, selfless action, and self-realization (jnana).
- The initial "poison" symbolizes the discomfort and discipline required to break away from worldly attachments and ego, while the "nectar" at the end represents the lasting bliss and peace of liberation (moksha).
Importance:
- This form of happiness is crucial for those seeking spiritual liberation. It aligns with the highest ideals of Dharma (righteousness) and is focused on long-term spiritual growth rather than short-term pleasure.
- The struggle to discipline the mind, control desires, and pursue higher knowledge leads to a higher, more stable form of joy.
Similar Example:
- The practice of yoga and meditation is a perfect example of Sattvika happiness. Initially, the body and mind resist the discipline, but over time, the practitioner feels immense peace and contentment.
- Delayed gratification is another modern example. The short-term "pain" of effort and patience yields long-term success and fulfillment, whether in career, relationships, or personal growth.
Quotes from Hindu Scriptures:
- Katha Upanishad (2.2.1): “The good (Shreya) and the pleasant (Preya) are two different things. They lead to very different goals. The wise choose the good, while the ignorant choose the pleasant.”
Modern Day Relevance:
- In a world filled with instant gratification, Sattvika happiness teaches the value of patience and perseverance.
- This form of happiness encourages mindfulness, conscious living, and a pursuit of purpose rather than material or fleeting pleasures.
- Modern-day individuals can apply this by cultivating habits like mindfulness, ethical living, and balancing worldly responsibilities with spiritual practice.
2. Rajasika Happiness (Sensory, Passionate Happiness)
Gita Verse 38:
"That happiness which arises from the contact of the senses with their objects, which appears like nectar at first but ends as poison, is Rajasika happiness."
Symbolism:
- Rajas stands for passion, activity, and constant movement. Rajasika happiness is the pleasure derived from external stimulation—material success, sensory gratification, and emotional highs.
- The sweetness at the beginning refers to the momentary thrill or pleasure, but it is often followed by dissatisfaction, greed, or emotional exhaustion, hence the "poison" at the end.
Importance:
- This type of happiness drives worldly ambition. While it is not inherently wrong, it is temporary and fleeting, often leaving individuals unfulfilled once the thrill is gone.
- Rajasika happiness is essential for material success, but the attachment to such fleeting pleasures can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of purposelessness if pursued exclusively.
Similar Example:
- Consumerism or the pursuit of material wealth often fits into the Rajasika model. The joy of acquiring new possessions fades, leading to a cycle of desire and dissatisfaction.
- Romantic infatuation often starts with intense pleasure but may end in heartache when expectations are unmet or the initial excitement fades.
Quotes from Hindu Scriptures:
- Isha Upanishad (Verse 1): “Enjoy the world with detachment, do not covet the wealth of others." This highlights that while worldly pleasures exist, they must be enjoyed with awareness and moderation.
Modern Day Relevance:
- In the age of social media, where the constant pursuit of likes, validation, and external success is glorified, Rajasika happiness is very common.
- Individuals may benefit by learning to manage their desires, practicing moderation, and understanding that external successes alone do not lead to sustained joy.
- It also emphasizes the importance of balancing sensory pleasure with deeper, more meaningful pursuits in life.
3. Tamasika Happiness (Ignorant, Deluded Happiness)
Gita Verse 39:
"That happiness which arises from sleep, laziness, and miscomprehension, which deludes the soul from beginning to end, is said to be Tamasika happiness."
Symbolism:
- Tamas represents darkness, ignorance, and inertia. Tamasika happiness stems from escapism—pleasures derived from ignorance, indulgence, or avoidance of reality.
- This form of happiness is characterized by lethargy and delusion. While it may seem like pleasure, it ultimately leads to stagnation and suffering.
Importance:
- While Tamasika happiness may seem benign, it results in spiritual regression. The attachment to comfort, laziness, and ignorance inhibits personal and spiritual growth.
- This happiness is dangerous because it keeps one in a state of ignorance and complacency, disconnected from reality and the higher purpose of life.
Similar Example:
- Addictions (whether to substances, technology, or unhealthy habits) often fit into the Tamasika category. They offer temporary escape but ultimately lead to destructive outcomes.
- Overindulgence in entertainment or sleep can provide temporary pleasure but often results in feelings of guilt, lethargy, and a sense of unfulfillment.
Quotes from Hindu Scriptures:
- Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (4.4.5): “As long as there is the least desire for the enjoyment of the senses, there is no chance for liberation (moksha).”
Modern Day Relevance:
- Tamasika happiness is prevalent in forms of escapism, such as excessive use of social media, binge-watching, or procrastination. While they offer short-term relief, they contribute to a loss of purpose and motivation.
- The Gita’s teaching urges modern individuals to recognize and overcome such patterns, promoting the need for self-awareness, discipline, and action to break free from inertia.
Practical Application of Threefold Happiness in Day-to-Day Life
- Balancing Happiness Types: Understanding these threefold types of happiness can guide individuals in making conscious choices. While Sattvika happiness leads to long-term fulfillment, Rajasika and Tamasika happiness offer insights into short-term gratifications and self-destructive behaviors, encouraging one to pursue balance.
- Self-Reflection: One can practice daily self-reflection to observe where their happiness stems from. Are they indulging in fleeting sensory pleasures or cultivating inner peace through mindful practices?
- Spiritual Discipline: Engaging in Sattvic activities like meditation, selfless service (karma yoga), or studying scriptures can help individuals rise above the transient pleasures of the senses.
Conclusion
The Bhagavad Gita’s teachings on threefold happiness offer a deep understanding of human desires and the pursuit of joy. By recognizing the impermanent nature of Rajasika and Tamasika happiness and focusing on cultivating Sattvika happiness, individuals can lead more purposeful, content, and spiritually fulfilling lives.