"That enemy has been slain by me, and I shall slay others too. I am the lord, I am the enjoyer, I am perfect, powerful, and happy."
As arrogance peaks, Krishna describes how the demoniac believe themselves invincible. Their pride makes them believe that success is purely self-made, dismissing moral considerations. This false sense of control fuels more greed and hostility, but Krishna suggests that karma is inescapable, and such unchecked ambition ultimately leads to downfall.
"I am wealthy and high-born; who else is equal to me? I shall perform sacrifices, give in charity, and enjoy." Thus, they are deluded by ignorance.
Krishna critiques the delusion of self-importance, where the demoniac mistake temporary wealth and power for lasting success. Their ignorance blinds them to the consequences of their actions. While they believe they are in control, their dependence on external validation ensures they remain bound by insecurity and attachment.
Bewildered by numerous thoughts, entangled in the web of delusion, attached to the gratification of desires, they fall into a foul hell.
Delusion reaches its peak as Krishna describes those entangled in endless desires. Instead of recognizing their inner emptiness, they continue seeking external pleasure. This verse marks the point where indulgence turns self-destructive, reinforcing Krishna’s teaching that true fulfillment comes not from accumulation but from detachment.
Self-conceited, stubborn, filled with pride and arrogance of wealth, they perform sacrifices in name only, with hypocrisy, not following the prescribed rules.
The demoniac may outwardly perform religious rituals, but Krishna exposes their insincerity. Their actions are driven by pride rather than devotion. This verse serves as a warning that spirituality without humility is meaningless. True faith requires surrender, not superficial displays of piety meant to impress others.
Clinging to egotism, power, arrogance, lust, and anger, these envious people hate Me in their own bodies and in the bodies of others.
Krishna points out how ego-driven individuals not only deceive themselves but also harbor resentment towards the divine. Their anger and envy stem from their inability to control life’s outcomes. This inner turmoil creates further separation from truth, illustrating how unchecked arrogance leads to self-destruction.
These cruel haters, the worst among men, I continuously cast into demonic births in the cycle of rebirth.
The consequence of sustained demonic tendencies is continued suffering. Krishna explains that those who repeatedly act with cruelty and ignorance are bound to cycles of lower births. This verse reinforces the idea that one’s character determines future experiences, and persistent negativity results in spiritual regression.
Falling into demonic births, these deluded beings, birth after birth, fail to attain Me and sink further into the lowest depths.
Krishna explains that repeated demoniac births push one further from liberation. Each lifetime spent indulging in ignorance makes it harder to break free. This serves as both a warning and a reminder that only conscious effort can reverse negative tendencies. Dharma must be cultivated through deliberate choices, not just beliefs.