Without beginning, without qualities, this Supreme Self is indestructible. Though situated in the body, O son of Kuntī!, it neither acts nor is stained.

Anāditvāt — from beginninglessness — the Self is eternal, never arising, never ceasing. Nirguṇatvāt — from being without qualities — it cannot be modified by the guṇas.

Avyayaḥ — indestructible — not subject to decay, change, or dissolution. This is the nature of pure consciousness.

Even while apparently śarīra-stha — situated in the body — the Self remains untouched. Like space in a vessel, consciousness is neither confined nor contaminated by the container.