Desire (Kama) & Craving in the Bhagavad Gita
Learn how unbridled desire clouds human wisdom and how to transform desire into noble aspiration.
Definition & Meaning
Desire (Kama) is the insatiable mental craving for sensory indulgence and ego gratification.
Meaning in the Bhagavad Gita
In Chapter 3 Verse 39, Krishna calls selfish desire the "constant enemy of the wise," which covers knowledge like smoke covers fire.
Important Verses on desire
When one thinks of objects, attachment to them arises; from attachment, desire is born; from desire, anger arises.
The Blessed Lord said, "It is desire and it is anger, both of the quality of Rajas, all-devouring and all-sinful; know this as the foe here in this world."
O Arjuna, wisdom is enveloped by this constant enemy of the wise, in the form of desire, which is insatiable like fire.
There are three gates to this hell, destructive of the self: lust, anger, and greed; therefore, one should abandon these three.
Practical Application in Daily Life
Redirect desire from selfish indulgence toward noble service, personal growth, and devotion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all desire bad in the Bhagavad Gita?
No. Krishna states in BG 7.11 that He is desire that is consistent with Dharma.
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