Verse 18.38 : Moksha Sanyasa Yoga "Liberation and Renunciation"
Verse 38 of 78
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The Translation
“That happiness which arises from the contact of the senses with their objects, which in the beginning is like nectar, but in the end is like poison—that is held to be in the mode of passion (Rajasic).”
Commentary & Insights
Krishna defines Rajasic happiness. In ancient times, this was the pleasure sought by those indulging in sensory luxuries, which brought quick excitement but ultimately led to physical decline, jealousy, and loss.
Practical Application
1
Identify one habit of instant gratification (like social media scroll or junk food) and pause before indulging.
Reflections & Notes
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Self-Reflection Prompts
- How does the trajectory of substance abuse or consumerist impulse reflect Rajasic happiness (nectar first, poison later)?
- Why is happiness built purely on sensory contact (samyoga) inherently unstable and anxiety-inducing?
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18.38
विषयेन्द्रियसंयोगाद्यत्तदग्रेऽमृतोपमम्
Shankara comments that sensory pleasures feel like nectar at the moment of contact. But when the contact ends, or when excess indulgence ruins the body, it turns into poison: loss of health, loss of character, mental agitation, and birth in lower worlds. This is Rajasic happiness, which must be avoided.