Chapter 14 Verse 21

Arjuna said, "What are the marks of one who has transcended the three qualities, O Lord? What is their conduct, and how do they go beyond these three qualities?"

Core Meaning

Arjuna asks how to recognize a person who has gone beyond the three gunas (sattva, rajas, tamas) and what their behavior looks like. Philosophically, “transcending the gunas” means being established in the true Self, not driven by pleasure, restlessness, or inertia.

A person beyond the gunas stays steady under praise or blame, pleasure or pain. Their actions are done without personal craving for results; they work from duty, clarity, and compassion rather than from desire or fear.

To move beyond the gunas one practices self-knowledge, inner discipline, and devotion. Over time this reduces attachment and reactivity, allowing action that is calm, wise, and free.

Life Application

• Notice your triggers: when you act from hurry, boredom, or craving, pause, breathe, and choose one calm, clear action instead.
• Do small tasks without seeking praise or reward (e.g., help a neighbor, finish a chore) to practice non-attachment to results.
• Spend 5–15 minutes daily in quiet reflection or simple meditation to strengthen inner steadiness and reduce reactive habits.

Reflection Question

When today was I most driven by desire, fear, or laziness—and how could I respond more calmly next time?