Yoga through the Perfection of Renunciation and Surrender
Verse 18.25
अनुबन्धं क्षयं हिंसामनपेक्ष्य च पौरुषम्।मोहादारभ्यते कर्म यत्तत्तामसमुच्यते।।18.25।।
anubandhaṁ kṣhayaṁ hinsām anapekṣhya cha pauruṣham mohād ārabhyate karma yat tat tāmasam uchyate
Word Meanings
anubandham—consequences; kṣhayam—loss; hinsām—injury; anapekṣhya—by disregarding; cha—and; pauruṣham—one’s own ability; mohāt—out of delusion; ārabhyate—is begun; karma—action; yat—which; tat—that; tāmasam—in the mode of ignorance; uchyate—is declared to be
Translation · English
That action which is undertaken from delusion, without regard for the consequences, loss, injury, and one's own ability, is declared to be Tamasic (dark).
Deep Meaning · English
In this verse, Krishna categorizes the 'Tamasic' (ignorant) nature of action, which is rooted in confusion and a lack of foresight. Such actions are not merely accidental; they are characterized by a total disconnection from the laws of cause and effect. The doer, blinded by delusion (moha), fails to consider the long-term consequences, the inevitable depletion of resources (kshaya), and the potential for harm (hinsa) caused to others or oneself. It is an act born of impulsive inertia rather than intentional dharma, where the individual’s own capacity—their spiritual maturity or practical ability—is ignored in the heat of a clouded mind. This state represents the ultimate degradation of the human will, where action is stripped of its potential for growth and instead becomes a source of entanglement. By labeling this as 'Tamasic,' Krishna warns the seeker that acting without discernment is not merely a mistake in judgment but a fundamental misalignment with the divine order. The spiritual aspirant is taught that ignorance is not passive; it is a corrosive energy that drains the soul’s vitality. To transcend this, one must move from the darkness of impulsive reaction to the light of reflective, conscious participation in the cosmic play. This verse serves as a mirror, urging Arjuna—and the seeker—to pause and evaluate the source and intent of every endeavor, ensuring that action arises from the clarity of Sattva rather than the chaos of ignorance.
Action performed in the darkness of delusion, ignoring the consequences, harm, and one's own limitations, is the hallmark of spiritual ignorance that binds the soul to sorrow.
Connected Verses
Provides the contrast by defining Sattvic action, which is performed without attachment or desire, serving as the antidote to Tamasic confusion.
Expands on the nature of Tamasic offerings and deeds, reinforcing how ignorance leads to harm and disregard for truth.
Explains that when the mode of darkness (Tamas) prevails, there is an absence of light, endeavor, and wisdom, leading to the erratic actions described in 18.25.
Highlights the necessity of equanimity and giving up attachment, which is the exact opposite of the impulsive, deluded action described in 18.25.
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