Chapter 14 · 27 verses
Krishna explains the three guṇas—sattva, rajas, and tamas—as qualities that shape embodied nature and influence perception, motivation, and behaviour. The chapter describes their signs and effects, how they bind, and the possibility of going beyond their influence through understanding and devotion.
Central focus
The three guṇas, self-observation, the conditioning of behaviour, and freedom beyond them.
Chapter outline
- The origin and binding power of the three guṇas
- How sattva, rajas, and tamas appear in experience
- Their influence on knowledge, action, and states of mind
- Signs of one who has gone beyond the guṇas
- The relation of freedom, devotion, and the supreme ground
Reading the chapter
Read this chapter in the context of the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna. Notice who is speaking, what question is being answered, and how each teaching develops from the preceding discussion. The chapter’s Sanskrit title is commonly rendered as Gunatraya Vibhaga Yoga; English titles vary across editions.
Verse study pathway
This chapter page introduces the chapter’s structure and key ideas. A complete verse-by-verse edition should present each verse with a verified Sanskrit text, IAST transliteration, a clearly credited translation, grammatical and lexical notes, and commentary that distinguishes the wording of the verse from later interpretation. Verse-level entries will be added in sequence after text and translation verification.
Questions for reflection
- How can the guṇas be used as a reflective framework without labelling people rigidly?
- What are the risks of mistaking sattva for final liberation?
- What does equanimity look like when the guṇas shift?
Study note
This is an introductory guide, not a claim that all philosophical schools interpret every passage in the same way. Sanskrit terms are retained where an English equivalent would flatten their range of meaning. Comparative interpretations should be attributed to the specific commentators and editions consulted.