Chapter 2 – Sankhya Yoga
Verse 63
Sanskrit Verse
krodhād bhavati sammohaḥ sammohāt smṛiti-vibhramaḥ
smṛiti-bhranśhād buddhi-nāśho buddhi-nāśhāt praṇaśhyati
Simple Meaning
O Arjuna!
From anger comes delusion; from delusion, confusion of memory; from loss of memory, destruction of intellect; and when the intellect is destroyed, one falls into complete ruin.
Detailed Explanation
The Beginning – Anger
Krishna explains that anger is the starting point of downfall.
When a person becomes angry, they lose emotional balance and clarity.
Anger clouds judgment and makes a person react impulsively.
From Anger to Delusion
Anger leads to delusion (Sammoha), where a person cannot distinguish between right and wrong.
They act based on emotion rather than wisdom.
Confusion of Memory
Delusion causes loss of memory (Smriti Vibhrama).
This means a person forgets their values, knowledge, and life lessons.
They lose connection with what is right and meaningful.
Destruction of Intellect
When memory is disturbed, the intellect (Buddhi) is destroyed.
The ability to think clearly and make correct decisions disappears.
Complete Downfall
Krishna concludes that when the intellect is destroyed,
the person ultimately faces downfall (Praṇashyati).
This downfall can be moral, mental, and even spiritual.
Key Points
- Anger is the root cause of downfall
- Anger leads to delusion and wrong thinking
- Delusion disturbs memory and awareness
- Loss of memory destroys intellect
- Destruction of intellect leads to ruin
Profound Spiritual Meaning
This verse reveals a powerful psychological chain reaction.
A single emotion—anger—can gradually destroy a person’s inner stability.
Krishna teaches that self-control is essential for spiritual growth.
By controlling anger, one can protect their wisdom and remain on the right path.
Word-by-Word Meaning
Krodhāt – From anger
Bhavati – Arises
Sammohaḥ – Delusion
Sammohāt – From delusion
Smṛiti-vibhramaḥ – Confusion of memory
Smṛiti-bhranśhāt – From loss of memory
Buddhi-nāśhaḥ – Destruction of intellect
Buddhi-nāśhāt – From destruction of intellect
Praṇaśhyati – One is ruined
Message of the Shloka
Anger initiates a chain reaction that leads to confusion, loss of wisdom, and ultimately downfall.
Krishna teaches that controlling anger and maintaining clarity of mind is essential for a balanced, peaceful, and successful life.
