टीका

Commentary

After explaining the competition among the three modes, Krishna now teaches Arjuna how to recognize when each mode is predominant. This verse describes the signs of sattva — the mode of goodness — in its ascendancy.

The body is described as having nine gates: two eyes, two ears, two nostrils, the mouth, and the two lower openings. When sattva is predominant, the light of knowledge (prakaasha) manifests through all these gates. This means that every sense functions with clarity and discernment. The eyes see things as they truly are, the ears hear correctly, and the mind comprehends accurately. The person perceives reality without distortion.

In practical terms, the signs of sattva’s predominance are unmistakable: the person sees the world clearly, hears things correctly, and tastes food properly. There is a sense of internal purity — the mind is calm, the intellect is sharp, and the heart is at peace. The person naturally gravitates toward activities that bring genuine benefit rather than temporary pleasure. They find joy in studying, in serving others, and in living simply.

This verse also serves a diagnostic function. By observing whether our senses are functioning with clarity or dullness, we can assess which mode is currently dominant in our lives. If we find ourselves seeing clearly, thinking rationally, and feeling a sense of inner brightness, we can know that sattva is in the lead. This awareness is the first step toward conscious cultivation of goodness and, ultimately, transcendence of all material modes.