Bhagavad Gita Chapter 14 Verse 17 Meaning

From Sattva arises knowledge, and greed from Rajas; heedlessness and delusion arise from Tamas, and also ignorance.

BG 14.17

सत्त्वात्सञ्जायते ज्ञानं रजसो लोभ एव च।प्रमादमोहौ तमसो भवतोऽज्ञानमेव च

sattvāt sañjāyate jñānaṁ rajaso lobha eva cha pramāda-mohau tamaso bhavato ’jñānam eva cha

Meaning

From Sattva arises knowledge, and greed from Rajas; heedlessness and delusion arise from Tamas, and also ignorance.

Available in 28 languages

Explanation & Life Application

This verse from Chapter 14 of the Bhagavad Gita highlights a practical insight: From Sattva arises knowledge, and greed from Rajas; heedlessness and delusion arise from Tamas, and also ignorance.

In The Yoga of the Three Gunas (Gunatraya Vibhaga Yoga), Krishna explains The three qualities of material nature: goodness, passion, and ignorance.

— Explained by the Nitya Team

Chapter Context

The three qualities of material nature: goodness, passion, and ignorance.

Key themes in this chapter include Three gunas, Material nature, Transcendence.

When to Apply This Verse

  • When you need steadiness while dealing with three gunas
  • When practicing material nature amid uncertainty
  • When applying transcendence to real-life choices

Verse FAQs

What is the main idea of Bhagavad Gita 14.17?
From Sattva arises knowledge, and greed from Rajas; heedlessness and delusion arise from Tamas, and also ignorance. This verse emphasizes three gunas with clarity and purpose.
How can I apply Bhagavad Gita 14.17 in daily life?
Apply this teaching when making choices or doing your duties. Focus on material nature and keep your mind steady regardless of outcomes.

Related Verses

Explore Related Themes

Read in Other Languages

← Back to Chapter 14: The Yoga of the Three Gunas

Build a daily reading habit with Nitya

Get the Free App