Commentary

Commentary

This verse continues the list begun in verse 4, completing Krishna’s enumeration of the qualities that define living beings. Together, verses 4 and 5 form a single statement: every quality found in any creature — whether good or bad, pleasant or painful — originates from the Supreme Lord.

Ahimsa (nonviolence) means not causing unnecessary suffering to any living being. It is listed as a divine quality because it reflects the compassion inherent in the Supreme. Samata (equanimity) is the ability to remain balanced whether circumstances are favorable or unfavorable — accepting what comes as the Lord’s arrangement.

Tushti (satisfaction) means contentment with what one has been given by grace, without endlessly craving more. Tapas (austerity) refers to the voluntary acceptance of difficulty for spiritual advancement — fasting, early rising, simplicity of life. Daanam (charity) is the giving of one’s resources for the benefit of others and for spiritual causes.

Finally, yasha and ayasha — fame and infamy. Even these come from the Divine. A great devotee may become famous, or may live in complete obscurity. Both conditions are arranged by the Lord according to what best serves that soul’s journey.

The key phrase is matta eva — “from Me alone.” Krishna does not claim credit only for the noble qualities. He acknowledges that the full spectrum of experience, including what we consider negative, arises from His creative power. This is not to say God causes evil, but that all the raw materials of experience originate in Him, and how we use them depends on our own choices.

The Source Behind All Qualities

Understanding that all qualities come from God transforms how we see the world. Every act of kindness, every moment of courage, every flash of insight — these are sparks of the Divine manifesting through living beings.