61. Certainty for an Uncertain Mind


The third chapter of the Gita is known as ‘Karma Yoga’, which is in continuation of the verse 2.71 where Krishna said that nir-mama (sans-I) and nir-ahankaar (sans- I am doer) are the paths to attain the eternal state.

Arjuna raises a doubt “If you consider buddhi (intellect) to be superior, why then do you engage me in terrible action (of war) (3.1) instead of telling me with nischay (certainty), what is best for my welfare without confusing me with perplexing speech” (3.2).

Labelling, expressed or hidden, is nothing but irrational and impulsive decisions which is not evidence-based and Krishna advised dropping labelling (2.50). Arjuna wanted to escape the war based on a single factor that he doesn’t foresee any good in killing one’s kinsmen in the battle (1.31). Subsequently, he gathers many justifications to defend his decision. The present question also appears as a part of the justification rather than the quest for better understanding.

Our situation is no different from that of Arjuna. We are labelled based on religion, race, family status, caste, nationality, gender etc. at early stages of our lives and we keep struggling to justify them throughout our lives.

Secondly, Arjuna is looking for nischay (certainty) from Krishna. We can’t have absolute certainty in the manifested world as impermanence or change is the norm of the manifested. Vikar (evolution or change) is the norm of prakriti (Nature) (13.20). Still, all of us look for certainty as it gives us comfort. We tend to label things quickly because it gives us a sense of certainty, rather than waiting patiently to gather enough evidence for a rational decision.

The eternal state of absolute certainty comes when we experience life with awareness, and we must earn it the hard way. All of us must walk the path ourselves as this experience can’t be borrowed from books or others. It’s akin to driving or cycling, which is one’s own experience.


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