222. Might might Not be Right




Krishna says that the demonic person thinks, “I have acquired this today and I shall now fulfill this desire of mine. This is mine, and tomorrow I shall have even more (16.13). I have killed this enemy and will slay other enemies too. I am the ruler among men; I am the enjoyer, I am perfect, powerful and happy (16.14). I am wealthy and well-born; Who else is equal to me? I will sacrifice, I will give, I will rejoice.” In this way, demonic persons are deluded by ignorance (16.15). In today’s world, this is often confused with ‘success’.

This is the language of ahankaar (sense of doership) which thrives on comparison with others. A demonic person is gripped by ahankaar which gets a boost when success is attained in terms of acquiring more wealth when compared with others; when enemies are defeated or when one feels like a ruler after reaching the peak of the ladder.

Comparisons can be used to improve ourselves by learning from people and situations. On the flipside, comparison drives desire, including the desire for accumulation and sensual gratification. But there is no end to sensual gratification and Krishna calls this the delusion born of ignorance. Krishna earlier referred to the sword of wisdom (4.41) and axe of non-attachment (15.3) to destroy ignorance and said that nothing in this world is as sanctifying as wisdom. In due course of time, he who has perfected yoga finds it in the self (4.38). The key is shraddha (trust) with saburi (patience).

Whatever may be our present condition, by working towards the yoga of wisdom we can attain wisdom in due course of time. The essence is to observe ourselves when we make comparisons; question these tendencies, like a good student (4.34), to improve ourselves. Krishna earlier assured that even small steps in the practice of yoga give results (2.40).


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