Chapter 16 Verse 11
Daivāsura Sampad Vibhāg Yog
चिन्तामपरिमेयां च प्रलयान्तामुपाश्रिताः।कामोपभोगपरमा एतावदिति निश्िचताः।।16.11।।
chintām aparimeyāṁ cha pralayāntām upāśhritāḥ kāmopabhoga-paramā etāvad iti niśhchitāḥ
Word Meanings
| chintām | anxieties |
| aparimeyām | endless |
| cha | and |
| pralaya-antām | until death |
| upāśhritāḥ | taking refuge |
| kāma-upabhoga | gratification of desires |
| paramāḥ | the purpose of life |
| etāvat | still |
| iti | thus |
| niśhchitāḥ | with complete assurance |
Translation
Giving themselves over to immeasurable cares that end only with death, regarding the gratification of lust as their highest aim, and feeling sure that that is all.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse describes people who are trapped by endless worries and who depend on those anxieties as if they were a refuge. They keep chasing sense-pleasure and believe that satisfying desire is the only purpose of life.
Philosophically, it points to a narrow view that treats temporary gratifications as permanent goals. That outlook creates continuous anxiety and prevents deeper peace, growth, or the discovery of higher meaning beyond immediate wants.
Life Application
- Notice when you are driven by worry or by the urge to consume—pause and ask if this will matter tomorrow or in a year.
- Practice small acts of restraint: limit checking social media, set a budget for purchases, or delay a desire for one day to test if it truly brings lasting happiness.
- Cultivate simple higher aims like kindness, steady work, learning, or spiritual practice to balance immediate cravings and reduce constant anxiety.
Reflection Question
Which short-lived desire do I chase most, and what deeper purpose could replace it?