Sattvic intellect possesses discernment that transcends superficial appearances, recognizing both what promotes spiritual freedom and what causes bondage. This discriminative wisdom enables correct choices even in complex ethical situations, providing inner certainty amid outer confusion.

Rajasic intellect lacks clear discrimination between higher and lower values, often confusing social convention with eternal principles. This confusion leads to inconsistent ethical decisions, as the person follows expedient rather than principled approaches to life's challenges.

Tamasic intellect represents the complete inversion of values, mistaking harmful actions for beneficial ones. This isn't mere error but a fundamental distortion of perception that leads to destructive choices made with conviction, explaining how people can commit harmful acts believing they are right.

Rajasic determination demonstrates how even strong will can be misdirected toward temporary achievements. The problem isn't lack of dedication but the fragmentation of energy across multiple goals, creating an exhausting pursuit of success that never brings lasting satisfaction.

Tamasic determination shows how persistence in harmful patterns prevents growth. While usually seen as weakness, Krishna presents it as active resistance to change, explaining the paradoxical stubbornness with which people cling to self-destructive behaviors despite their obvious harm.

Krishna transitions to analyzing happiness itself, revealing how even our experience of joy varies according to the gunas. This examination of happiness completes his comprehensive analysis of human experience, showing how the gunas influence not just actions but their results.