In this series, we present the first three verses of Chapter 16 of the Bhagavad Gita. The entire chapter is sometimes called “Spirituality and Materialism”, with the first three verses giving a list of spiritual or “Godly” qualities. It is interesting to note that while these qualities are called “Godly”, they are in fact very familiar to each of us and indeed, are the qualities that make us human. Later in the chapter, Krishna will go on to list the materialistic or demonic qualities.

Alas, the demonic qualities are also familiar to each of us. It should be noted that those who indulge in the demonic qualities tend to exhibit less human and more animal-like behavior. While the animal kingdom is constrained by nature to act within a more limited set of behaviors – we humans, created in the image of God; that image which includes not only all the “Godly” qualities mentioned in this chapter, but also the gift of free will, are under no such constraints. Thus the choice to act godly or demonically, rests entirely with each of us. Nothing in the three realms compels any of us to act against our will.