Even the man-of-knowledge acts in conformity with his own nature, which is determined by the pattern of thoughts that arise in him. At any given instant of time, each one of us is determined by the thoughts that are in us at that moment; and the thoughts in us always get patternised by the channels of thinking, designed by the thoughts which we had entertained in the past. The nature of each individual is decided by the style of thinking which each is capable of. The man-of-knowledge mentioned here indicates one who has read and understood thoroughly the “technique of action” as explained in this chapter. Even when he knows the technique, the Lord says that it is not easy for him to follow it, because his mind is designed to carry his thoughts through ego-centric and selfish channels, ever panting to gain some desires. Because of these past impressions (vasanas), even an honest student finds it hard to practise this simple-looking technique in his life. The reason is quite universal: “BEINGS FOLLOW THEIR OWN NATURE.” Naturally “WHAT CAN RESTRAINT DO” when nature is too powerful?
This last statement in the stanza “WHAT CAN RESTRAINT DO?” is not a cry of despair in Krishna’s philosophy, but it is the honest all-seeing vision of the philosopher in Krishna, who recognises that the higher ways of living are not meant for all. Men crowding on the lowest rung of the evolutionary ladder, overwhelmed by their own animal passions, find themselves incapable of renouncing them, and are, therefore, incapacitated to walk the Path-of-Action. It is only a slightly evolved entity, full of enthusiasm, activity and a passion for progress (Rajo-guna), who can follow this sacred “path” and benefit himself. This honest confession shows the broad-mindedness and tolerance of Krishna, the Universal Teacher.
IF EVERY BEING ACTS ONLY ACCORDING TO HIS OWN NATURE — AND THERE IS NONE THAT HAS NOT A NATURE OF HIS OWN — THEN, THERE IS NO SCOPE FOR PERSONAL EXERTION AND THE TEACHING BECOMES PURPOSELESS. THE LORD EXPLAINS AS FOLLOWS:
