Bhagavad Gita 13.24 · Krishna
Knowing this sets you free
य एवं वेत्ति पुरुषं प्रकृतिं च गुणैः सह।
सर्वथा वर्तमानोऽपि न स भूयोऽभिजायते॥
ya evaṃ vetti puruṣaṃ prakṛtiṃ ca guṇaiḥ sahasarvathā vartamāno’api na sa bhūyo’abhijāyate
One who truly knows spirit, and nature with its gunas, is not born again, however they may be living.
Words
- puruṣa
- prakṛti
- guṇa
What it means
Krishna gives a promise. Whoever truly knows purusha, spirit, and prakriti, nature with its gunas, is free. Not born again into the cycle, whatever their outer circumstances. Real understanding loosens attachment from inside, wherever you are and whatever you're doing.
The story
Arjuna wonders if he needs to retreat to a forest to be free. Krishna says no. Knowing who you are frees you right in the middle of a busy, demanding life.
In your life
Think of someone in a hectic job who discovers inner calm through understanding themselves better. Nothing outside changed. Everything inside did. Spend ten minutes this week reflecting on who you truly are.
Knowing who you are sets you free.