Chapter 16 Verse 9
Daivāsura Sampad Vibhāg Yog
एतां दृष्टिमवष्टभ्य नष्टात्मानोऽल्पबुद्धयः।प्रभवन्त्युग्रकर्माणः क्षयाय जगतोऽहिताः।।16.9।।
etāṁ dṛiṣhṭim avaṣhṭabhya naṣhṭātmāno ’lpa-buddhayaḥ prabhavanty ugra-karmāṇaḥ kṣhayāya jagato ’hitāḥ
Word Meanings
| etām | such |
| dṛiṣhṭim | views |
| avaṣhṭabhya | holding |
| naṣhṭa | misdirected |
| ātmānaḥ | souls |
| alpa-buddhayaḥ | of small intellect |
| prabhavanti | arise |
| ugra | cruel |
| karmāṇaḥ | actions |
| kṣhayāya | destruction |
| jagataḥ | of the world |
| ahitāḥ | enemies |
Translation
Holding this view, these ruined souls of small intellect and fierce deeds come forth as enemies of the world, intent on its destruction.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse warns that people with a narrow, wrong view and little understanding become harmful. Their harsh actions hurt the world and make them like enemies of society.
Spiritually, the root is a limited sense of self and ignorance. When we cling to views born of ego, fear, or pride, our choices turn cruel or destructive instead of helpful and wise.
The verse calls us to examine our outlook. True spiritual growth widens the mind, softens the heart, and turns action toward the welfare of all rather than causing harm.
Life Application
- Notice beliefs that come from fear or pride; question them before acting.
- Choose small daily acts of kindness and nonviolence to counter narrow views.
- Spend a few minutes daily in honest self-reflection or quiet meditation to loosen rigid thinking.
Reflection Question
Which of my beliefs or habits lead me to harm others or myself?