(Image Courtesy Mahanidhiswami)

The Body is Perishable & Can be Destroyed but the Soul is Imperishable & Indestructible

अन्तवन्त इमे देहा नित्यस्योक्ता: शरीरिण: |
अनाशिनोऽप्रमेयस्य तस्माद्युध्यस्व भारत || 2.18||

antavanta ime dehā nityasyoktāḥ śharīriṇaḥ
anāśhino ’prameyasya tasmād yudhyasva bhārata||2.18||

Shloka Translation
BG – Ch. 2- Ver. 18:

O Bharata’s descendant Only the physical body perishes; the embodied spirit within is immortal, indestructible, and immeasurable. As a result, battle.

Explanation

Another aspect of the eternal essence is introduced in this Shloka. It’s inexplicable and incomprehensible. In other words, our intellect is incapable of comprehending it. It’s also worth noting that the everlasting essence is referred to as a single entity, whereas the bodies are numerous. That is, all material objects, including human bodies, are pervaded by the same everlasting essence.
You believe that fighting against your relatives is bad, wrong, and evil. Your reasoning is flawed. You are oblivious to the bigger picture.
I’ll explain the correct rationale to you. You should not be sad about them. Human bodies and material goods are perishable and unreal, whereas the everlasting essence, body dweller, is imperishable and real. I’ll also offer some helpful suggestions. Do not be upset by joy and grief experienced as a result of interactions with people, items, or situations. These are only temporary circumstances, so be patient. You will begin to realize the timeless essence if you learn to remain stable in the face of joy and sadness.
Get up and battle, O Arjuna, now that you know you can never destroy the imperishable eternal essence and that you should not lament for the perishable.

Verse & What we can learn

Thinking from a bodily perspective gives rise to sorrow and grief whereas connecting with the all-pervading essence or divinity gives one strength and peace.

It is not wise to worry about temporary things, persons and situations.

In the next verse, we will see Lord Krishna elaborating on the nature of body & soul.

Let’s learn to live with “The Gita” via Meditation Affinity…