The modes of material nature

I shall declare to you this supreme wisdom, the best of all knowledge, knowing which all the sages have attained the supreme perfection

Material nature consists of the three modes--goodness, passion and ignorance. When the living entity comes in contact with nature, he becomes conditioned by these modes.

The mode of goodness being purer than the others, is illuminating, and it frees one from all sinful reactions. Those situated in that mode develop knowledge, but they become conditioned by the concept of happiness.

The mode of passion is born of unlimited desires and longings and because of this one is bound to material fruitive activities.

The mode of ignorance causes the delusion of all living entities. The result of this mode is madness, indolence and sleep, which bind the conditioned soul.

The mode of;
- goodness conditions one to happiness,
- passion conditions him to the fruits of action, and
- ignorance ... to madness...

Man follows the ways of the Earth.
The Earth follows the ways of Heaven.
Heaven follows the ways of Tao.

Tao follows its own ways ...