243. Gunas are behind divisions
K rishna says, “I have created four varnas (social classifications) based on differentiation of gunas and karmas but know Me to be the non-doer and immutable” (4.13). He further clarifies, “ 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 social classifications 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 to the body (14.5). Satva binds through attachme...