Pragmatic Gita: Chapter 18: Buddhi and Dhriti: 18.29 to 18.35

What You’ll Discover

In this episode, we explore a rarely discussed yet deeply transformative teaching from the Bhagavad Gita. Krishna presents a psychological map of Buddhi and Dhriti, referring to intelligence and determination. Through verses 18.29 to 18.35, he explains how these two inner faculties are shaped by the three gunas: sattva (purity), rajas (passion), and tamas (inertia). These forces silently influence every choice we make, from our goals to our moral compass.

What makes this even more profound is Krishna’s insight that life’s struggles often stem not just from external circumstances, but from the quality of our discernment (buddhi) and the depth of our perseverance (dhriti). You will encounter powerful modern parallels, including corporate burnout and spiritual bypassing, that reveal how rajasic and tamasic tendencies impact our moral clarity and emotional stamina.

In a world filled with constant stimulation, conflicting advice, and emotional exhaustion, our inner compass can easily falter. Moral relativism has blurred the lines of ethical integrity, and moral inversion, where falsehood is mistaken for virtue, is widespread. The question arises: how do we remain rooted in truth and inner strength amidst such turmoil?

Krishna offers a timeless solution. By cultivating sattvic buddhi, we begin to see clearly. By strengthening sattvic dhriti, we remain firm in what is right. With practical and relatable examples, you will see how this guidance applies to everyday scenarios like social media habits, leadership decisions, and emotional resilience.

• How tamasic buddhi glamorizes harm and clings to illusion
• Why rajasic dhriti drives ambition but often ends in exhaustion
• How sattvic dhriti sustains spiritual effort through adversity
• Clear, actionable tools to purify both intellect and will

Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a leader making tough calls, or someone simply looking for clarity and strength, this episode will give you a practical framework from Krishna’s teachings.

🎧 Tune in and reconnect with your inner compass through the wisdom of Buddhi and Dhriti.

With devotion,
krsnadaasa (Servant of Krishna)