A major problem with desire is its endlessness. When indulged, desire doesn’t end — it subsides temporarily only to return soon with greater force and ferocity. No wonder the Bhagavad-gita warns that unrestrained desire can be our eternal enemy (03.39).

How can we deal with endless desire? By considering the other meaning of the word ‘end’: not just ending (“When will all this end?”), but also purpose (“To what end are you doing all this?”). Gita wisdom explains that the endlessness of desire is not the actual problem; the problem is directing such endless desire toward things that have an end — seeking eternal pleasure in the temporary ends in misery (05.22).

Guided by Gita wisdom, when we learn to direct desire toward an object that is endless or eternal — the indestructible self — we can be endlessly contented (05.21, 05.24). Going further, we can direct desire not just toward an object that is endless but also toward an object whose desirability is endless. That endlessly desirable object is the all-attractive supreme, Krishna: he is the whole whose parts we all are (15.07), the summum bonum whose spark is manifested by everything attractive (10.41). 

And Krishna is not just the endlessly desirable object; he is an endlessly desirable person who also endlessly desires us (18.64). Understanding this can dramatically increase his desirability. Desiring him opens for us the doors to a loving, thrilling, captivating reciprocal relationship that can go on endlessly. Indeed, desiring him makes us not just endlessly contented, but endlessly delighted (10.09).

One-sentence summary:

Desire may never end, but it can have a perfect end — when directed toward the One whose desirability has no end, the very endlessness of desire fuels the endlessness of delightful love.  

Think it over:

  • Why is the endlessness of desire a problem?
  • How can this problem be addressed by appreciating the two meanings of ‘end’?
  • How can the very endlessness of desire be a part of the solution?

***

10.09: The thoughts of My pure devotees dwell in Me, their lives are fully devoted to My service, and they derive great satisfaction and bliss from always enlightening one another and conversing about Me.