Defining Human Identity: A Database Approach Through the Lenses of Bhagavad Gita

In a digital age, we often strive to define human identity using databases that rely on unique identifiers. However, traditional databases typically focus on unique biometric data like iris marks and thumb impressions. While these are certainly unique, the ancient text of Bhagavad Gita reveals a deeper understanding of what truly defines us as human beings.

Unique Identifiers and Biometric Data

The combination of our iris marks and thumb impressions or any other specific biometric data can be considered highly unique identifiers for an individual. In the realm of forensic science, DNA is the ultimate biometric identifier, providing a unique key for identifying individuals worldwide. However, the Bhagavad Gita offers a different perspective on what defines our identity.

The Three Modes of Material Nature

According to the teachings of Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita, the primary key to define human identity lies not in physical characteristics but in the three modes of material nature: goodness, passion, and ignorance. These modes govern our mental and physical identities, transforming our perception of reality and our actions.

Understanding the Three Modes

The three modes of material nature can be likened to three primary colors: red (ignorance), yellow (passion), and blue (goodness). Just as these primary colors can create all other colors, the three modes of material nature can create all the conditions, actions, and identities within the material world.

Ignorance (Rajas) manifests as a focus on material possessions and wealth. An individual in this mode typically identifies people based on their work and material success, such as a soccer player, an actor, or an artist. They thrive from indulging in activities like intoxication, sleep, and intoxication, seeking happiness through material gains.

Passion (Tamas) is characterized by a valuing of material bodies and their attributes, such as gender, race, and family. In this mode, individuals tend to identify people by their physical appearance and material conditions, often leading to fruitive actions and desires for power, prestige, and material success.

Goodness (Sattva) embraces the inherent spirituality of all living beings, seeing beyond material attributes to the soul. Gaining knowledge and learning becomes the primary source of happiness, as one seeks to understand the spiritual realities of the universe.

Illustrating the Modes

A practical illustration can help us understand these modes more clearly. Consider a professional who dedicates 20 years to a demanding job, embodying the mode of goodness (Sattva) in their daily work. However, this same person may enjoy mindless entertainment, smoking, or drinking on their days off, reflecting the mode of ignorance (Rajas). Alternatively, they might be a successful businessman pursuing power and prestige, demonstrating the mode of passion (Tamas). Conversely, a scientist or philosopher who dedicates themselves to studying and learning embodies the mode of goodness (Sattva).

It is crucial to recognize that no individual is purely in one mode; each person is a unique blend of these three modes. The mode of ignorance (Rajas) destroys passion (Tamas), passion (Tamas) creates ignorance (Rajas), and the mode of goodness (Sattva) preserves and maintains the other two.

Upscaling from Individuals to Society

Understanding these modes can provide valuable insights into human behavior and societal structures. By recognizing the predominant mode of different people and groups, we can better navigate interactions, predict behavior, and even foster harmony and cooperation. For instance, in a work environment, understanding the predominant modes of employees can help in creating more inclusive and productive teams.

Concluding Thoughts: Liberating the Soul

The ultimate goal, as outlined in the Bhagavad Gita, is to transcend these three modes completely. This state, known as the Brahman plane, signifies liberation from material constraints. From there, one can progress to the ultimate stage of human life, the Krishna plane, where one acts solely to please Krishna, achieving ultimate bliss and fulfillment.

By recognizing and understanding the three modes of material nature, we can gain a deeper insight into human identity and behavior, moving beyond superficial databases and into a more nuanced, spiritual understanding of ourselves and others.