Chapter 16: Daivāsura Sampad Vibhāg Yog

Chapter 16: Daivāsura Sampad Vibhāg Yog

Yog through Discerning the Divine and Demoniac Natures

Life Lesson
The Devine nature is characterized by humility, self control and purity
The demonic nature leads to misery and suffering in this life and the next 
Lust anger and greed leads to the gates of hell 
Devine nature leads to spiritual progress and ultimate liberation
The wise person recognizes the difference between the Devine and demonic qualities
By cultivating Devine qualities, one can attain eternal happiness and peace. 

This chapter expounds on the two kinds of human nature—the saintly and the demoniac. Shree Krishna explains that the saintly-nature develops in humans by cultivating the modes of goodness, by following the instructions given in the scriptures, and purifying the mind with spiritual practices. Such behavior attracts daivī sampatti or godlike qualities, eventually leading to God-realization. Contrary to this, the demoniac-nature develops by associating with modes of passion and ignorance and materially focused lifestyles that breed unwholesome traits in human personality. This leads the soul finally to a hell-like existence.

Shree Krishna enumerates the saintly virtues of those endowed with a divine nature and then describes the demoniac qualities that should be shunned consciously. Else, these will drag the soul further into ignorance and samsara or the cycle of life and death. In the end, Shree Krishna declares that the knowledge of the scriptures helps in overcoming ignorance and passion. They also guide us to make the right choices in life. Therefore, we must understand their teachings and injunctions and accordingly perform our actions in this world.

The 26 divine qualities are described as the characteristics of those with a divine nature, leading to liberation, while the opposite qualities belong to those of a demoniac nature, leading to bondage. 
Here's a breakdown of the 26 divine qualities, as described in verses 16.1-3:
The Divine Qualities (Daivi Sampada):

1. Fearlessness (Abhaya): Brave and unafraid in the face of adversity.
2. Purity of Heart (Sattva): A pure and unblemished mind.
3. Perseverance in Acquiring Wisdom (Jnana-Yoga): Steadfastness in seeking knowledge and spiritual practice.
4. Charity (Dana): Generosity and giving without expectation of return.
5. Subjugation of the Senses (Indriya-Nigraha): Control over the senses and desires.
6. Performance of Holy Rites (Yajna): Performing sacrifices and rituals according to the scriptures.
7. Study of the Scriptures (Veda-Path): Studying the Vedas and other sacred texts.
8. Self-Discipline (Tapas): Austerity and self-restraint.
9. Straightforwardness (Satya): Honesty and truthfulness in words and actions.
10. Non-Injury (Ahimsa): Harmlessness and non-violence towards all beings.
11. Truthfulness (Satya): Speaking the truth and living honestly.
12. Freedom from Wrath (Krodha-Aparadh): Absence of anger and irritability.
13. Renunciation (Tyaga): Detachment from worldly attachments.
14. Tranquility (Shanti): Peacefulness and calmness of mind.
15. Absence of Malice (Asatya): Not speaking ill of others or engaging in gossip.
16. Compassion for All Creatures (Daya): Kindness and empathy towards all living beings.
17. Absence of Greed (Aloluptvam): Freedom from avarice and covetousness.
18. Gentleness (Shanti): Kindness and mildness of manner.
19. Modesty (Hrih): Humility and a sense of decorum.
20. Lack of Restlessness (Acapalam): Steadfastness and determination.
21. Radiance of Character (Tejah): Inner brilliance and strength of character.
22. Forgiveness (Kshama): The ability to forgive and not harbor resentment.
23. Patience (Dhriti): The ability to endure hardships with fortitude.
24. Cleanliness (Saucam): Purity of both body and mind.
25. Freedom from Hate (Asatya): Absence of hatred and malice.
26. Absence of Conceit (Natimanita): Lack of pride and arrogance. 

Human Values: Peace, Love, Truth, Non-Violence, Right Conduct

The demoniac qualities are described as arrogance, pride, anger, conceit, harshness, and ignorance. 
Here's a more detailed breakdown of these qualities: 

1. Arrogance: A sense of inflated self-importance and a disdain for others.
2. Pride: Excessive self-regard and a lack of humility.
3. Anger: Easily provoked and prone to outbursts of rage.
4. Conceit: A belief in one's own superiority and a tendency to boast.
5. Harshness: Cruel and unkind behavior towards others.
6. Ignorance: A lack of understanding and wisdom, particularly regarding spiritual matters.