Overcoming activity and inertia, luminosity arises, O Bhārata!; activity overcomes luminosity and inertia, so inertia overcomes luminosity and activity.

The guṇas are in constant flux, each rising as the others subside. This dynamic interplay constitutes the ever-changing field of nature.

When sattva predominates, clarity and joy arise. When rajas predominates, restlessness and desire prevail. When tamas predominates, confusion and lethargy dominate.

The yogi aims to cultivate sattva while ultimately transcending all three guṇas — this is the state of guṇātīta — beyond the qualities.