Like moths to a flame

yathā pradīptaṃ jvalanaṃ pataṅgā viśanti nāśāya samṛddhavegāḥtathaiva nāśāya viśanti lokāsa- tavāpi vaktrāṇi samṛddhavegāḥ

As moths fly fast into a blazing fire to their end, so these worlds rush fast into Your mouths.

What it means

Arjuna adds a second image, sharper than the first. Moths, drawn to a flame, flying straight into it. The rivers flowed gently. The moths rush eagerly. Many people, driven by pride and craving, race toward their own downfall. Like the Kauravas, choosing war again and again.

The story

Duryodhana was offered peace many times. He refused. Like a moth to a flame, he kept flying toward destruction. Arjuna now sees it clearly, from above.

In your life

Imagine someone who keeps returning to a habit they know is hurting them. Pull of the flame. Name one moth-and-flame pattern in your life. Take one step away from it this week.