अर्जुन उवाच।
कैर्लिङ्गैस्त्रीन्गुणानेतानतीतो भवति प्रभो।
किमाचारः कथं चैतांस्त्रीन्गुणानतिवर्तते।। १४.२१ ।।
Summary Translation:
Arjuna inquired: O my Lord, by what symptoms is one known who is transcendental to those three modes? What is his behavior? And how does he transcend the modes of nature?
In this pivotal verse, Arjuna poses three profound Questions to Lord Krishna regarding the state of Gunatita—the one who has transcended the three modes of nature. He asks: 1) kair lingais (by what symptoms) is such a person recognized? 2) kim acharah (what is their behavior/conduct)? and 3) katham (how) does one ativartate (cross over) these three Gunas? This analysis highlights Arjuna's Sincerity in wanting to understand the practical manifestation of Perfection. He is not just looking for Philosophy but for a Blueprint of a liberated soul. In a religious sense, this shloka marks the transition from the Description of the Gunas to the Portrait of the Ideal Saint. Arjuna addresses Krishna as Prabhu (Lord), acknowledging His Authority to reveal these hidden truths. The quest for lingais (signs) shows a Need for external validation of internal spiritual growth. Arjuna's inquiry into acharah (conduct) reflects the Concern of how a person who has reached the Summit of spirituality interacts with the Imperfections of the world. This question is central to the Practice of Karma Yoga, as it explores how one can be Theologicaly Free while still performing Actions. The third question, regarding the how (katham), is the Bridge that every seeker must cross. It asks for the Method of Ascension. The detailed interpretation suggests that Arjuna is acting as a Proxy for all humanity, asking the questions that every Aspirant must eventually face. This shloka serves as a Anchor, focusing the conversation on the Reality of spiritual victory over material nature. It invites the Lord to provide a Compass for those lost in the Forest of the three Gunas.