Meaning
Supreme God Krishna spoke
The happiness that arises from the interaction of the senses with sensory objects may initially taste delightful, like an elixir, but ultimately proves to be harmful, akin to poison. Therefore, this type of pleasure is termed Passional (Rājasic). (18:38)
Sanskrit
श्रीभगवान् उवाच
विषयेन्द्रियसंयोगाद्यत्तदग्रेऽमृतोपमम् ।
परिणामे विषमिव तत्सुखं राजसं स्मृतम्॥
Word-by-word
विषय-इन्द्रिय संयोगात् यत् तत् अग्रे अमृत उपमम्,
परिणामे विषम्-इव— तत् सुखम् 'राजसम्' स्मृतम्।
Commentary
Indulging in sensual pleasures without restraint can eventually lead to sorrow. For instance, excessive consumption of sugary or spicy foods may provide immediate delight but can result in painful health issues later on. Engaging in multiple sexual relationships can lead to the risk of contracting serious diseases like syphilis or AIDS. Furthermore, it can strain relationships with loved ones, lead to emotional distress, and even result in public humiliation, legal complications, and, in some extreme cases, acts of violence, including murder.