Question

According to Bhagavad Gita 15.10, in what states do those possessed of the "Eye of Knowledge" (Jnana-chakshushah) perceive the soul (Atman)?
A. Attached to sense objects (Vishayanashaktam)
B. Departing the body (Utkramantam)
C. Staying in the body (Sthitam)
D. Enjoying the qualities/objects (Bhunjanam Gunavitam)
E. Remaining Indifferent (Udasinam)

• A. A, B, C, D, E
• B. E, D, C, B, A
• C. B, A, C, D, E
• D. C, D, B, E, A

Hint:

Remember the three 'actions' of the soul in BG 15.10: Utkramantam (Going out), Sthitam (Staying in), and Bhunjanam (Enjoying). These three capture the entire biological journey of the spirit through a physical form.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains that the individual soul (Jiva) is subtle and invisible to the naked eye. Ordinary people, who are deluded by Avidya (ignorance) and the three Gunas, can only perceive the gross physical body. They fail to see the animator within. However, those who have cultivated spiritual wisdom through scriptural study and meditation possess the Jnana-chakshuh (the Eye of Knowledge). These enlightened beings can perceive the subtle operations and the transitions of the soul.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The verse BG 15.10 specifically lists the states in which the soul can be perceived by the wise:
"utkrāmantaṃ sthitaṃ vāpi bhuñjānaṃ vā guṇānvitam |
vimuḍhā nānupaśyanti paśyanti jñānacakṣuṣaḥ ||"
Following this literal text:
1. Utkramantam (B): "Departing." The wise see the soul as it leaves the physical body at the time of death, transmigrating to another state.
2. Sthitam (C): "Staying." They see the soul's presence as the conscious witness within the living body, maintaining the biological functions.
3. Bhunjanam (D): "Enjoying." They perceive the soul as it experiences the world (Bhunjanam) while being possessed of the qualities (Guna-anvitam) of the three Gunas.
The options Vishayanashaktam (A) and Udasinam (E) are not mentioned in this specific verse. While the soul's attachment or indifference are philosophical topics discussed elsewhere in the Gita, verse 15.10 focuses on the active presence and movement of the soul that remains hidden from the ignorant (Vimudhah) but is visible to the wise (Jnanachakshushah). Therefore, B, C, and D are the correct choices.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The wise perceive the soul in states of departing, staying, and enjoying.