Bhagavad Gita Chapter 18 Verse 27 Meaning

Passionate, desiring to obtain the reward of their actions, greedy, cruel, impure, moved by joy and sorrow, such an agent is said to be Rajasic.

BG 18.27

रागी कर्मफलप्रेप्सुर्लुब्धो हिंसात्मकोऽशुचिः।हर्षशोकान्वितः कर्ता राजसः परिकीर्तितः

rāgī karma-phala-prepsur lubdho hinsātmako ‘śhuchiḥ harṣha-śhokānvitaḥ kartā rājasaḥ parikīrtitaḥ

Meaning

Passionate, desiring to obtain the reward of their actions, greedy, cruel, impure, moved by joy and sorrow, such an agent is said to be Rajasic.

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What Does Bhagavad Gita 18.27 Mean?

The Gita addresses liberation with characteristic directness here. Passionate, desiring to obtain the reward of their actions, greedy, cruel, impure, moved by joy and sorrow, such an agent is said to be Rajasic. Within the broader arc of Chapter 18, this verse builds on Krishna's systematic exposition of duty and grace. Ramanuja's commentary highlights how this verse reinforces the accessibility of the Gita's path.

The teaching on liberation is presented not as an elite attainment but as a practical orientation available to anyone willing to examine their motivations and actions honestly. The practical invitation is to hold this verse as a mirror. Where in your life does the principle of liberation feel most challenging? That is precisely where the teaching has the most to offer.

— Explained by the Nitya Team

What Is the Context of Bhagavad Gita 18.27?

The conclusion of the Gita, summarizing all paths and encouraging Arjuna to surrender to God.

Key themes in this chapter include Liberation, Surrender, Duty, Grace.

How Can I Apply Bhagavad Gita 18.27 in Daily Life?

  • When you need steadiness while dealing with liberation
  • When practicing surrender amid uncertainty
  • When applying duty to real-life choices

Verse FAQs

What is the main idea of Bhagavad Gita 18.27?
The Gita addresses liberation with characteristic directness here. Passionate, desiring to obtain the reward of their actions, greedy, cruel, impure, moved by joy and sorrow, such an agent is said to be Rajasic. Within the broader arc of Chapter 18, this verse builds on Krishna's systematic...
How can I apply Bhagavad Gita 18.27 in daily life?
Apply this teaching when making choices or doing your duties. Focus on surrender and keep your mind steady regardless of outcomes.

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