Shloka 10
Chapter 43: Tumult of Battle-Sounds and the Proliferation of Dvandva
Paired Engagements
उत्क्रामन्तं स्थितं वापि भुज्जानं वा गुणान्वितम् । विमूढा नानुपश्यन्ति पश्यन्ति ज्ञानचक्षुष:
utkrāmantaṁ sthitaṁ vāpi bhuñjānaṁ vā guṇānvitam | vimūḍhā nānupaśyanti paśyanti jñānacakṣuṣaḥ ||
The deluded do not perceive the self as it departs the body, as it abides within it, or as it experiences objects while associated with the three guṇas. Those who possess the eye of wisdom, however, discern this truth clearly.
अजुन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The self’s movement—departing at death, abiding in the body, and experiencing through the guṇas—is not grasped by the deluded, but is discerned by the wise through knowledge. The verse urges cultivation of insight that distinguishes the enduring self from the changing body-mind.
Arjuna is articulating a philosophical distinction central to the teaching: ordinary people fail to recognize the self’s presence and transition, while the spiritually discerning perceive it. This supports the broader counsel to act with clarity rather than be overwhelmed by grief and confusion.