Chapter 18 Verse 37
Mokṣha Sanyās Yog
यत्तदग्रे विषमिव परिणामेऽमृतोपमम्।तत्सुखं सात्त्विकं प्रोक्तमात्मबुद्धिप्रसादजम्।।18.37।।
yat tad agre viṣam iva pariṇāme 'mṛtopamam tat sukhaṁ sāttvikaṁ proktam ātma-buddhi-prasāda-jam
Word Meanings
| yat | that which |
| tat | that |
| agre | in the beginning |
| viṣam iva | like poison |
| pariṇāme | at the end |
| amṛta | nectar |
| upamam | compared to |
| tat | that |
| sukham | happiness |
| sāttvikam | in the mode of goodness |
| proktam | is said |
| ātma | self |
| buddhi | intelligence |
| prasāda-jam | satisfactory. |
Translation
That which is like poison at first but in the end like nectar—that happiness is declared to be sattvic, born of the purity of one's own mind due to self-realization.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse says true sattvic happiness may feel like poison at first but turns into nectar in the end. In other words, some things are painful or difficult at the start but bring deep peace and joy later. This kind of happiness comes from a clear, steady mind — from self-knowledge and inner purity.
Think of medicine that tastes bitter but heals, or effort that is hard now but rewarding later. Such choices lead to lasting well-being, not just momentary pleasure. Sattvic joy is not given by objects or senses; it grows from inner clarity and right understanding.
Life Application
- Choose what builds you: tolerate short-term discomfort (exercise, honest conversation, study, meditation) for lasting benefit.
- Reframe hard steps as medicine: remind yourself that initial difficulty can bring true relief later.
- Make small daily sacrifices: say no to impulses that weaken you and yes to practices that strengthen awareness.
Reflection Question
What uncomfortable step am I avoiding now that could bring lasting joy later?