The Bhagavad Gita: The Supreme Self and Two Paths

 

The Bhagavad Gita: The Supreme Self and Two Paths

 

XV. The Supreme Self

Krishna reveals that he transcends not only the world of matter, but also the immortal Atman (Self) that dwells as the conscious “knower” within all beings. Krishna is not only the Atman, but also transcends it as well. This higher aspect of Krishna is called Ishvara, the cosmic Lord, who abides in his own mystery. The Self does not become Krishna: the immortal soul, even when liberated from its mortal journeying, does not become God. This home of Krishna is an abode of light and eternal life. It is beyond the description of human language. Here this “it” or “that” is called “tat”. In his divine mystery Krishna sends fragments of himself to become the inner Self in each creature. [John 16:7 the “Counselor” RSV]
Krishna says: “An eternal part of me enters into the world, assuming the powers of action and perception and a mind…The deluded do not see the Self  when it leaves a body or when it dwells within it. They do not see the Self enjoying sense objects or acting through the gunas. But they who have the eye of wisdom see.”

 

XVI. Two Paths

Here we get a description of the divine qualities that liberate, and the demonic qualities that enslave. The demonic personality is basically atheistic [and therefore practices many forms of idolatry]. They cause suffering to themselves and others. Krishna may grant them wealth and power, but their destination is a hell of their own making, as their karma bears its fruit. They feel self-importance and are often cruel.. Krishna arranges for them to be born again into a harsh world. The doors to this hell include lust, anger and greed.

Krishna says: “The demonic do things they should avoid
And avoid things they should do.
They have no sense of uprightness, purity, or truth.”

“Egotistical, violent, arrogant, lustful, angry, envious of everyone, they
abuse my presence within their own bodies and in the bodies of others. Life after life I cast those who are malicious, hateful, cruel and degraded into the wombs of those with similar natures.”