Bhagavad Gita Chapter 14, Verse 15 (BG 14.15) — Meaning, Translation & Commentary

# BG 14.15 According to the principle established earlier, when a soul departs from the body at a time when the rajasic quality predominates, it is born among humans who are attached to action. For such a being, the human realm is the most suitable field for performing deeds and experiencing their fruits. Conversely, if the soul abandons the body when the tamasic quality has grown strong, it then attains birth in deluded forms of life—among animals, birds, or plants. Some philosophers hold the view that once a soul has attained human birth upon the ladder of evolution, it cannot fall back to lower forms of existence. Undoubtedly, this is a comforting doctrine, yet it cannot be accepted as it contradicts observable facts and experience. The reality is that even when the most favorable circumstances and environment are provided for progress, not all human beings make equal use of them to attain glorious cultural distinction. The son of a wealthy man, though of ordinary intellect, finds himself in favorable circumstances from the beginning of life; yet it is commonly observed that instead of making proper use of his position, he lives a life of negligence and indulgence, thereby bringing about his own ruin. Though endowed with intelligence, how many among us conduct ourselves with discernment? Some in society even look upon animals with envy and declare that their lives are superior and happier. The implication is that, in the view of certain minorities, the life of four-legged creatures represents a higher stage of development than that of two-legged beings. If someone holds such a conviction, then animal life becomes not something to be despised but something to be desired—that which one craves. A temperate man who abstains from intoxicants regards a tavern as a place of suffering, yet to one addicted to drink, that same place appears as a sanctuary of pleasure and peace. For those of tamasic nature, birth in animal form is a wonderful opportunity for experiencing joy, where they can fully express their inclinations and tendencies. Thus, from the perspective of philosophy, we must acknowledge without hesitation or reservation that those of tamasic nature will find complete contentment in animal bodies. Therefore, it is said here: when death occurs at a time when the tamasic quality has grown strong, the soul is born in deluded forms of life. The essence of this passage is as follows: