The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred text of Hinduism, and it is a part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. In Chapter 2, Verse 62 of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna imparts wisdom to Arjuna, the warrior prince, about the nature of attachment and desires. The verse (2.62) reads:
"dhyaayato vishayaan pumsah sangas tesu upajaayate sangaat sanjaayate kaamah kaamaat krodho 'bhijaayate"
Translation: "While contemplating the objects of the senses, a person develops attachment for them, and from such attachment, desires are born. From desire, anger arises."
The verse suggests that when a person excessively contemplates and develops attachments to sensory objects (i.e., material possessions, relationships, experiences, etc.), desires are naturally born within them. These desires can lead to unfulfilled expectations, which may, in turn, give rise to anger or sorrow.
The teachings in the Bhagavad Gita often emphasize the idea of detachment (nishkama karma) and the importance of performing one's duty without being overly attached to the outcomes or rewards. It warns against letting desires and attachments control our actions, as these can lead to suffering.
In this context, love and affection, while inherently positive emotions, can become problematic if they transform into attachment, possessiveness, or dependency. If one becomes overly attached to a person or an idea, the fear of losing them or not fulfilling their expectations may lead to sorrow or suffering if things don't go as desired.
The Bhagavad Gita encourages a balanced approach to life, where one maintains emotional equanimity and performs their duties with dedication while remaining detached from the outcomes. By cultivating detachment, individuals can free themselves from the roller-coaster of emotions caused by desires and attachments, ultimately finding a path to inner peace and contentment.