Chapter 13: Kshetra-kshetrajna-vibhaga-yoga – Distinction between Object Field and its Knower: Verse 21
कार्यकरणकर्तृत्वे हेतु: प्रकृतिरुच्यते।
पुरुष: सुखदु:खानां भोक्तृत्वे हेतुरुच्यते ॥
kārya-karaṇa-kartṛtve
hetu: prakṛtirucyate
puruṣa: sukha-du:khānāṃ
bhoktṛtve heturucyate – 13.21
In producing all kinds of outcome, including our body, with instruments of action, the limbs and senses, Prakṛti (Nature) is the sole cause. In experiencing sukha and duhkha, Purusha is the cause.
Chapter 13: Kshetra-kshetrajna-vibhaga-yoga – Distinction between Object Field and its Knower - Verse 21
Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha
Creation consists of two distinct facets. Various kinds of activities, together with small and subtle as well as big and gross instruments, are the first. With the eyes we see, with the hands we hold, with the legs we walk. Activities as well as the instruments employed for those, come under Prakṛti consisting of three gu¸as, namely sattva, rajas and tamas. All matter-energy modifications are caused and sourced by Nature.
As for the second facet, whenever knowledge, understanding, experiences, and conscious reactions and outcomes transpire, then mere nature is not sufficient. Purusha, associated with Prakṛti, becomes necessary. Purusha causes and enjoys multiple responses resulting in happiness and unhappiness.
Purusha is so called, because seated in each body, he coordinates all the sensory, mental and intellectual functions. At the Cosmic level, God becomes Purusha, as He dwells in all beings. Prakṛti is like an instrument the wielder Purusha employs variously to manifest all activities in the Universe.
