The seventy-second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.

In this talk, continuing with Chapter 16:01, Swamiji defines Krishna's ideas on Divine and Demonic, and learning to discern between the helpful and harmful. He also shares a story of a devotee of Anandamayi Ma who met the Franciscan saint, Padre Pio.

Swami Nirmalananda opens a powerful new chapter in the Gita that outlines the distinction between divine (daivic) and demonic (asuric) qualities—not just as mythological types, but as real tendencies in human nature. Through rich personal stories, scriptural exposition, and compassionate exhortation, he emphasizes the need to recognize what uplifts and what degrades—both in others and within ourselves.

He reminds us that spiritual discrimination is not harsh judgment but the wise refusal to let our consciousness be dragged into darkness. He also highlights specific divine qualities such as fearlessness, purity, self-control, and compassion, urging listeners to cultivate these with sincerity. Above all, this talk is a moving call to practice living kindness, recognizing the divine in every soul, even in the lonely, forgotten, or damaged beings around us.

• Divine vs. Demonic Qualities:

• Daivic (divine): radiant, uplifting, rooted in light and truth.
• Asuric (demonic): shadowed, egoic, destructive, either ignorant or willfully dark.

• Spiritual Impact of Association: Some people elevate simply by their presence; others subtly drain spiritual vitality or distract from the path.

• You must discriminate: Judging isn’t hatred. It’s wisdom. Know what uplifts or darkens your mind and act accordingly—this is essential for a Yogi.

• Self-diagnosis is vital: Ask not only “what am I doing?” but “what am I becoming?” Avoid the self-deception of walking in “spiritual twilight.”

• Fearlessness & Confidence: Real fearlessness is rooted in confidence in oneself, in God, and in the path of yoga. Fear is often the mask of spiritual laziness or avoidance.

• Purity & Steadfastness: Divine qualities begin with a pure, uncluttered heart and a steady commitment to knowledge and spiritual practice—no excuses, no delays.

• Devotion in Action: Giving of oneself through charity, helpfulness, or even a simple kind word can transform another’s life. That too is almsgiving.

• Compassionate Presence: Small, sincere gestures—listening to the brokenhearted, affirming the lonely, praising a child—are acts of high yoga.

• Every soul matters: From animals to strangers, kindness is never wasted. You invest in eternity each time you affirm someone’s divine value.

• Kindness is spiritual power: Quoting Christ: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” The divine life is lived through compassion and presence.