Commentary

Commentary

This verse concludes the description of the symptoms of a transcendent soul, answering Arjuna’s first two questions about the signs and conduct of one who has gone beyond the three modes.

Maana-apamaanayoh tulyah — equal in honor and dishonor. The transcendent person’s sense of identity does not depend on social recognition. Whether honored by kings or insulted by fools, their inner peace remains undisturbed. This is possible only when one’s identity is firmly rooted in the spiritual platform rather than in the material body and its social roles.

Tulyo mitra-ari-pakshayoh — equal toward friend and enemy. This does not mean the transcendent person treats everyone identically in action, but rather that their inner attitude is free from partiality based on personal gain or loss. They see every living being as a part of the Supreme Lord and treat all with the same spiritual goodwill.

Sarva-aarambha-parityaagee — one who has renounced all material undertakings. This is the most challenging quality listed. It means the transcendent person does not initiate any activity driven by personal material ambition. All their actions are in the service of the Supreme Lord. They may appear very active externally, but internally there is no personal agenda — everything is offered to Krishna.

The verse concludes with the definitive statement: guna-ateetah sa uchyate — “such a person is said to have transcended the modes.” This summary formula confirms that these qualities, taken together, constitute the unmistakable signs of genuine liberation while still embodied.