In the preceding three chapters were elucidated the following, (1) what constitutes the nature of the physical reality (Prakrti), i.e., of the individual self (Purusha) taken separately and in conjunction with each other; (2) that their conjunction is the result of attachment to the Gunas, and their separation, the result of non-attachment; (3) that Prakrti and the individual self in whatever modes of existence they be, both constitute the glory (Vibhuti) of the Lord; and (4) that the real nature of the Lord as the Supreme Person is distinct from unconscient matter and conscient entity in both the states of bondage and freedom, as He is immutable, pervading, supporting and ruling. Immediately afterwards, the Lord speaks about the division into the divine and the demoniacal creations. This division is based upon whether the person denoted follows the Shastras or not. Those who follow the Shastras are classed as divine, and the others who violate them as demoniacal. The purpose of this teaching is to impress that submission to the Shastras is necessary for getting established in all the teachings given earlier, including those on conduct.

‘Fear’ is the pain arising from the awareness of the cause which brings about pain in the form of either dissociation from the objects of attainment or association with the objects of aversion. The absence of this is ‘fearlessness’. ‘Purity of mind’ is the condition of Sattva, viz., the state of the internal organ being untouched by Rajas and Tamas. ‘Devotion to meditation on the knowledge (of the self)’ is firm adherence to the discrimination between the pure nature of the self and Prakrti. ‘Alms-giving’ is the giving away of one’s wealth earned through right means to the deserving. ‘Self-control’ is the practice of withdrawal of the mind from sense-objects. ‘Worship’ is the performance of the fivefold duties (sacrifices) etc., of life in the spirit of worship of the Lord without attachment to the fruits. The ‘study of the Vedas’ is devotion to the Vedic study with the conviction that all the teachings of the Vedas deal with the Lord, with His glorious nature and with the mode of worshipping Him. ‘Austerity’ is the practice of penances like Krchra, Candrayana, vow on the twelfth day of the lunar fortnight, etc., which foster capability for performing acts pleasing to the Lord. ‘Uprightness’ consists of the oneness of thought, word and deed in one’s dealings with others.