Chapter 14 Verse 6
Guṇa Traya Vibhāg Yog
तत्र सत्त्वं निर्मलत्वात्प्रकाशकमनामयम्।सुखसङ्गेन बध्नाति ज्ञानसङ्गेन चानघ।।14.6।।
tatra sattvaṁ nirmalatvāt prakāśhakam anāmayam sukha-saṅgena badhnāti jñāna-saṅgena chānagha
Word Meanings
| tatra | amongst these |
| sattvam | mode of goodness |
| nirmalatvāt | being purest |
| prakāśhakam | illuminating |
| anāmayam | healthy and full of well-being |
| sukha | happiness |
| saṅgena | attachment |
| badhnāti | binds |
| jñāna | knowledge |
| saṅgena | attachment |
| cha | also |
| anagha | Arjun, the sinless one |
Translation
Of these, sattva, which is luminous and healthy due to its stainlessness, binds one by attachment to happiness and knowledge, O sinless one.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
Sattva is the quality of purity, light, health, and clarity. It brings calm, insight, and a natural feeling of well-being. In other words, it makes us clear-headed and peaceful.
Yet the verse warns that even this good quality can bind us. When we become attached to the pleasant feelings of goodness or to being knowledgeable, we start identifying with them. That attachment ties us to the same cycle of self-centeredness the other modes create.
Spiritually, the aim is to use sattva as a tool for freedom. Cultivate purity and wisdom, but watch for the subtle desire to keep feeling good or to be seen as wise. True growth comes when you act from clarity without clinging to the result or to an identity.
Life Application
- Notice when virtuous actions or learning give you pride; remind yourself that the purpose is service and inner clarity, not self-image.
- Do helpful, honest work and study with the aim to grow, not to chase comfortable feelings or praise.
- Meditate or reflect regularly to see attachments arising and gently let them go without judgment.
Reflection Question
Am I using my goodness and knowledge to become freer, or to feel better about myself?