Bhagavad Gita Chapter 16, Verse 4

English Translation

O son of Prtha, (the attributes) of one destined to have the demoniacal nature are religious ostentation, pride and haughtiness, [Another reading is abhimanah, self-conceit.-Tr.], anger as also rudeness and ignorance.

Detailed Commentary

Explanation for 16.4: Dambha (Hypocrisy/Deceit): To gain honor, praise, worship, fame, etc., Dambha is defined as showcasing a status one does not possess. This is of two kinds: (1) Dambha concerning virtues: In this, an individual displays themselves as righteous, a spiritual seeker, learned, meritorious, etc., even though these qualities are not truly present in them. (2) Dambha concerning vices: In this, an individual starts behaving in a depraved manner to gain honor and respect among those with corrupt conduct. The essence is that when a person begins to prioritize the body, wealth, possessions, etc., then Dambha arises in them. Darpa (Arrogance): Darpa is pride. The feeling of superiority experienced due to wealth, possessions, family, etc., is Darpa. Abhimana (Conceit/Ego): Abhimana refers to ego, such as the ego of caste or position. Krodha (Anger): Krodha is when a person burns with the feeling of wishing harm upon others. Parushyam (Harshness/Cruelty): Parushyam is hardness. This includes not accepting the words of others or behaving harshly. Ajnanam (Ignorance): Here, Ajnanam implies a lack of discrimination (Viveka-heenata). Persons engrossed in the enjoyment and accumulation of transient objects do not discern the difference between Sat (the Real) and Asat (the Unreal). Abhijātasya Pārtha sampadam āsurīm – O Partha, these are all symptoms of *asuri prakriti* (demonic nature). These characteristics develop in individuals who consider the body to be permanent. The relationship with *prakriti* (material nature) is formed by an individual's own will. Therefore, one can renounce this relationship if one chooses. Thus, humans possess the capacity to eradicate *asuri sampatti* (demonic qualities). As attachment (moha) to the vital airs/life increases, so too does *asuri sampatti*. Context: Now the Lord explains the results of both Daivi (divine) and Asuri (demonic) qualities.