243. Gunas are behind divisions


 Krishna says, "I have created four varnas (divisions) based on differentiation of gunas and karmas, but know Me to be the non-doer and immutable (4.13). Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras perform karmas according to the gunas springing from their nature" (18.41).

Firstly, our divisive mind builds hierarchies around us. Secondly, falsehood is nothing but a manipulated truth. Together, a falsehood was built that the divisions are based on birth and are hierarchical. But, the simple truth is that humans are of four types because of the gunas and karmas. Moreover, this division is not a tool to judge a person. These facts need to be kept in mind while understanding verses dealing with varnas or castes which still dominate the social and political fabric of our society.

While explaining gunas, Krishna says, "Three gunas of satva, rajas and tamas bind the soul (14.5). Satva binds through attachment to knowledge (14.6). Rajas binds the embodied soul through attachment to action (14.7). Tamas binds through sleep" (14.8). Essentially, each guna binds us in one way or another.

One guna may be dominant in us throughout our lives determining our personality. But, each day of our life is a product of the interplay of these gunas.  For example, when we are given a task in the office which requires additional knowledge, satva helps us to attain it. Rajas is the desire to execute tasks as per the deadline. By the end of the day when we get tired, tamas helps us with sleep. Similarly, if we are driving to a new place, knowing the direction is satvik and driving is rajas.

Binding is another name for guna and dependence on them is bondage. Golden handcuffs don't make bondage any better than iron ones. Guna-ateeth is transcending this bondage to attain ultimate freedom where gunas become tools.

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