Chapter 2, Verse 16 (Bhagavad Gita 2.16)
Chapter 2: Sānkhya Yog – Transcendental Knowledge
Sanskrit Shloka
नासतो विद्यते भावो नाभावो विद्यते सतः। उभयोरपि दृष्टोऽन्तस्त्वनयोस्तत्त्वदर्शिभिः
Transliteration
nāsato vidyate bhāvo nābhāvo vidyate sataḥ ubhayorapi dṛiṣhṭo ’nta stvanayos tattva-darśhibhiḥ
Word Meanings
na—no; asataḥ—of the temporary; vidyate—there is; bhāvaḥ—is; na—no; abhāvaḥ—cessation; vidyate—is; sataḥ—of the eternal; ubhayoḥ—of the two; api—also; dṛiṣhṭaḥ—observed; antaḥ—conclusion; tu—verily; anayoḥ—of these; tattva—of the truth; darśhibhiḥ—by the seers
Translation
The unreal has no existence, and the real never ceases to be; the truth of both has been perceived by the seers of the ultimate reality.
Meaning & Commentary
This verse serves as a fundamental metaphysical diagnostic tool to help us overcome existential anxiety. By distinguishing between that which changes (the unreal/phenomenal world) and that which remains constant (the real/atman), we learn to detach our identity from fleeting emotions and circumstances. It teaches that our deepest essence is not subject to birth, death, or decay, providing an unshakable anchor amidst life's inevitable fluctuations. When we internalize this wisdom, our perspective shifts from identification with the temporary body to the realization of our eternal consciousness. Consequently, we gain the equanimity required to navigate challenges without losing our inner peace.