Unburden – In Gita Verse 18.24 But action performed with great effort by one seeking to gratify his desires, and enacted from a sense of false ego, is called action in the mode of passion.
Bhagavad Gita Verse 18.24 discusses actions performed with significant effort by individuals driven by personal desires and a false sense of ego, categorising such actions as being in the mode of passion.
Rajas represent actions driven by excitement. Tamas, on the other hand, signifies actions performed unconsciously. Individuals experiencing restlessness and excitement find it challenging to remain idle. They constantly need to engage in some activity to avoid discomfort. This behaviour is often observed in people who repetitively engage in trivial tasks, such as reading the same newspaper multiple times or continuously rearranging household items. This incessant activity stems from an inner excitement, making meditation particularly difficult for such individuals.
When an unconscious person attempts to meditate, they tend to fall asleep. Conversely, a person with a restless mind, such as a king, experiences numerous physical sensations and distractions, such as imaginary ant bites or sudden itching. These internal stimuli prevent them from sitting quietly, making it extremely challenging for individuals characterised by Rajas to remain still.
Tamas signifies a state of unconsciousness, while Rajas denotes a state of frenzy. In contrast, Sattva represents consciousness, attentiveness, and harmony. The essence of the matter lies not in the action itself but in the individual’s state of consciousness. It is crucial to elevate oneself from unconsciousness and ego-driven behaviour. Actions should not be performed out of ignorance or for the sake of excitement. Instead, every action should serve as a means for personal growth and inner awakening. Each action should contribute to heightened awareness and caution, ultimately leading to the realisation of the inner Buddha.
Krishna emphasises that greed arises from an emptiness in the present moment. To escape this discomfort, individuals project their desires into the future, hoping for better outcomes. However, this future never arrives, as the present moment remains perpetually empty. Greed stems from an inability to fully experience the richness of the present moment.
Actions that require significant effort and are driven by a desire for results and ego are classified as Rajasic. Religiousness, in contrast, is based on the principle of giving. Desire is focused on receiving, while ego is concerned with what can be obtained from others. A self-conscious person, however, focuses on what they can give, feeling grateful to those who receive.
Religion can also be equated with love, which is pure and innocent when devoid of ulterior motives. Love is an expression of surplus energy, leading to a natural desire to share. Those who receive this love help unburden the giver, creating a sense of gratitude.
Sharing is the ultimate form of magic, distinct from mere trickery. True sharing arises from a profound experience of love, bliss, and ecstasy. It is an overwhelming force that flows naturally between individuals who are open and receptive. This connection transcends the mind and becomes evident through its effects, transforming individuals into mere presences, fragrances, or dances.
The concept of a universal soul unites all living beings, including trees, birds, and animals. Our ignorance lies in perceiving ourselves as separate entities, which is the essence of ego. When this false notion of separation dissolves, life becomes a continuous experience of miracles and magic. Those who are searching for deeper meaning are irresistibly drawn toward this magnetic pull, becoming part of the flow.
In spiritual gatherings, this magical connection occurs daily. It is an experience of unity, where multiple hearts beat as one and a profound silence prevails. This phenomenon is not an art to be learned but a natural flow of existence through us. The key is to not obstruct this flow but to allow universal consciousness to reach those who can receive it.
Krishna advises embracing the spirit of sharing, making it a fundamental aspect of life. This involves giving without any expectation of receiving, without conditions, and purely out of abundance. By doing so, neither false ego nor desire can hinder one’s journey toward goodness.
Tags: Unburden
