pravṛittiṁ cha nivṛittiṁ cha janā na vidur āsurāḥ
na śhauchaṁ nāpi chāchāro na satyaṁ teṣhu vidyate
pravṛittim — proper actions;
cha — and;
nivṛittim — improper actions;
cha — and;
janāḥ — persons;
na — not;
viduḥ — comprehend;
āsurāḥ — those possessing demoniac nature;
na — neither;
śhaucham — purity;
na — nor;
api — even;
cha — and;
āchāraḥ — conduct;
na — nor;
satyam — truthfulness;
teṣhu — in them;
vidyate — exist
In simple terms, this verse talks about people who are described as having a "demoniac" nature. These individuals do not really understand what is good and what is bad. For example, in our daily lives, we follow rules or guidelines to help us decide how to act in various situations. But, those with a demoniac nature ignore these important instructions.
Imagine a society where people respect rules about honesty, cleanliness, and good behavior. People cherish virtues like truth and kindness. However, those who are demoniac do not care about these qualities. They may lie, be dirty, or behave inappropriately without thinking twice about it.
The verse also suggests that these individuals might not even know these rules exist, or if they do, they have no desire to follow them. For instance, if someone knows that being honest is important but still lies for their benefit, they are showing a lack of respect for the truth.
Furthermore, it points out that such individuals are not clean, either on the outside or the inside. This cleanliness refers to how we present ourselves and how we think or feel inside. An example of physical cleanliness is keeping our surroundings tidy and personal hygiene, while inner cleanliness relates to our thoughts and intentions. A person who harbors anger or deceit is considered 'unclean' internally.
Overall, this verse emphasizes that those with a demoniac nature lack understanding of basic principles that guide good behavior and moral conduct. They stray away from these values, leading to a lack of purity and truth in their lives.