Bhagavad Gita Chapter 18, Verse 21

English Translation

But know that knowledge to be originating from rajas which, amidst all things, apprehends the different entities of various kinds as distinct [As possessing distinct selves.].

Detailed Commentary

Explanation — "That knowledge by which one perceives distinctness in various separate existences" (Gita 18.21a). In Rajasic knowledge, *raga* (attachment) is predominant. "Know Rajas to be of the nature of attachment" (Gita 14.7). It is a characteristic of *raga* that when it connects with something, it generates attachment and fondness for some, and aversion (*dvesha*) for others. Due to this very *raga*, a person possessing Rajasic knowledge, considering the diverse forms, natures, names, appearances, qualities, etc., of all moving and non-moving beings—humans, Devas, Yakshas, Rakshasas, animals, birds, insects, trees, creepers, and so forth—perceives the single, indestructible Ātman residing within them as fundamentally separate. "That knowledge by which one perceives all beings [as separate]—know that knowledge to be Rajasic" (Gita 18.21b). Similarly, that knowledge by which a person regards beings as distinct due to their connection with different bodies, inner faculties (*antahkarana*), temperaments (*svabhava*), senses (*indriyas*), vital airs (*prana*), etc., is called Rajasic knowledge. In Rajasic knowledge, there is no discrimination (*viveka*) between the inert (*jada*) and the conscious (*chetana*). Connection: Now, Tamasic knowledge is described.