तेज: क्षमा धृति: शौचमद्रोहो नातिमानिता ।
भवन्ति सम्पदं दैवीमभिजातस्य भारत ॥ ३ ॥
ejaḥ kṣhamā dhṛitiḥ śhaucham adroho nāti-mānitā
bhavanti sampadaṁ daivīm abhijātasya bhārata
श्लोक ३: हे भरतवंशी, तेज, क्षमा, धैर्य, शुद्धता, घृणा एवं अत्यधिक अभिमान का अभाव जैसे लक्षण उस व्यक्ति में देखे जाते हैं जो दिव्य गुणों के साथ जन्म लेता है।
Shloka 3: O scion of Bharata, vitality, forgiveness, fortitude, purity, absence of hatred and lack of excessive pride are the attributes of one born with divine qualities.
In this verse, Krishna completes his enumeration of the qualities that together shape the character of someone destined for the divine path. He lists vigor (tejaḥ), forgiveness (kṣamā), fortitude (dhṛtiḥ), cleanliness (śaucam), absence of malice (adrohaḥ), and freedom from the craving for honor (na ati-mānitā) as the final attributes of those who embody divine virtues. These qualities are described as the natural ornamentation of those who are born for, or earnestly strive toward, a higher consciousness.
The term tejaḥ refers to an inner radiance or strength, not in the sense of aggression, but as a glowing assertiveness rooted in strong moral character. It is the ability to meet challenges squarely and act decisively without selfishness. This vigor is essential for fulfilling duties in the world, while remaining rooted in values and uprightness.
Forgiveness, or kṣamā, is highlighted as the ability to let go of resentment and refrain from retaliation. Krishna points out that true forgiveness is an act of strength, not weakness. It is born from insight into the flaws and learning curves of all beings, allowing one to release bitterness and maintain inner peace, even when wronged.
Dhṛtiḥ, or fortitude, is the inner firmness that enables one to remain committed to righteousness and spiritual practice even when circumstances are adverse. This strength is quiet and persistent, an enduring resolve to continue walking the path of truth and integrity, regardless of obstacles or setbacks. It ensures that one’s foundation remains unshaken by difficulties or discouragement.
Cleanliness (śaucam) covers both external hygiene and an internal state of purity. It means not only keeping the mind and body free of impurities, but also cultivating clean motives, transparent intentions, and an environment that fosters clarity and goodness. In this way, śaucam supports an atmosphere where other divine virtues can thrive.
Adrohaḥ, the absence of malice, means that there is no intention, even subtle, to harm others. This is not merely the lack of physical violence but extends to the absence of jealousy, grudges, or vengeful thoughts. Such a person seeks neither to injure others nor to undermine them, embodying a level of goodwill and benevolence that is integral to the divine disposition.
Na ati-mānitā, or freedom from the desire for honor, means performing one’s duties with sincerity and humility, without the craving for recognition or praise. The wise do not measure their worth by external validation. Instead, they gain fulfillment from the act of service itself, letting go of the need for applause or acclaim. This sets the stage for steady progress without distraction.
Through this cluster of virtues, Krishna identifies the hallmarks of a soul inclined to the divine nature. He suggests that while some may possess these qualities naturally, everyone can consciously nurture them. These qualities are not superficial behaviors but deep expressions of a refined and purified consciousness. They do not simply benefit the individual but ripple outward, influencing families, workplaces, and communities, anchoring society in maturity, harmony, and peace.
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