Chapter 14 Verse 16
Guṇa Traya Vibhāg Yog
कर्मणः सुकृतस्याहुः सात्त्विकं निर्मलं फलम्।रजसस्तु फलं दुःखमज्ञानं तमसः फलम्।।14.16।।
karmaṇaḥ sukṛitasyāhuḥ sāttvikaṁ nirmalaṁ phalam rajasas tu phalaṁ duḥkham ajñānaṁ tamasaḥ phalam
Word Meanings
| karmaṇaḥ | of action |
| su-kṛitasya | pure |
| āhuḥ | is said |
| sāttvikam | mode of goodness |
| nirmalam | pure |
| phalam | result |
| rajasaḥ | mode of passion |
| tu | indeed |
| phalam | result |
| duḥkham | pain |
| ajñānam | ignorance |
| tamasaḥ | mode of ignorance |
| phalam | result |
Translation
They say that the fruit of good action is Sattvic and pure; indeed, the fruit of Rajas is pain, and the fruit of Tamas is ignorance.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse teaches that the results of our actions depend on the inner quality or motive behind them. Actions done from purity, selflessness, and clarity (Sattva) bring calm, wholesome results that help the mind grow clear and steady.
When actions are driven by strong desire, ego, or restlessness (Rajas), their results often bring stress, disappointment, or more craving—so the outcome is pain. Actions born of laziness, ignorance, or denial (Tamas) lead to confusion and deeper ignorance, trapping us in harmful habits.
In short: the same outer act can lead to freedom, suffering, or confusion depending on our inner state. Changing motives and awareness changes the fruit we reap.
Life Application
- Before acting, pause and ask: Am I doing this from clarity and service, or from craving and fear? Choose the clearer motive when possible.
- Build simple daily habits that foster Sattva: honest work, mindful breathing, truthful speech, and small acts of kindness.
- Reduce Rajas and Tamas by limiting impulsive choices, avoiding overindulgence, and breaking routines of procrastination and avoidance.
Reflection Question
What motive usually guides my choices: clarity, craving, or avoidance?