Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 40

English Translation

The Blessed Lord said O Partha, there is certainly no ruin for him here or hereafter. For, no one engaged in good meets with a deplorable end, My son!

Detailed Commentary

Explanation: Arjuna's mind harbored the question of whether one falls from the spiritual path if one is unable to remember Bhagavan at the time of death. Bhagavan understood this concern and addressed it to alleviate Arjuna's anxiety. 'Pārtha naiveha nāmutra vināśastasya vidyate' – O son of Pritha! The *sādhaka* who deviates from *Yoga* at the final moment, his spiritual *sādhana-sāmagrī* (equipment for practice) does not get destroyed. He does not fall below the state he has attained. For instance, Muni Bharata was performing *tapas* but became attached to a deer calf, which led to his birth as a deer. However, his *sādhana* was not destroyed. Even in the form of a deer, he remembered things from his previous life. Just as the inclination for *sevā*, *japa*, and *dhyāna* persists in human birth, it does not cease even when *yonis* (species/births) change. For example, many animals like elephants and camels used to listen to the *kathā* (stories) of Bhagavan. 'Na hi kalyāṇakṛtkāścid durgatiṁ tāta gacchati' – Bhagavan lovingly told Arjuna that one who performs auspicious (or welfare-producing) deeds does not suffer *durgati* (a bad plight or unfortunate destiny). Any *sādhaka* who sincerely desires to attain Bhagavan does not suffer *durgati*. His *sādhana* and its ultimate benefit are not spoiled. No matter which path he takes, as long as his goal is the *Paramātmā*, "I (Bhagavan) continue to protect him." Therefore, once the *saṁskāra* (impression) of *sādhana* is imprinted upon the *ātmā*, it is never destroyed. Similarly, no matter which *yoni* a being enters, its good inclinations will always lead to its welfare. For instance, due to obstacles in a particular life, a *sādhaka*'s sentiments and conduct may falter, but ultimately, he attains liberation. A *Yogi* does not fall; even if difficulties arise midway, he is ultimately attracted towards the *Paramātmā*. Therefore, one should continue practicing *sādhana* diligently and consciously so as not to get entangled in bad company and stray from the path of *sādhana*.