“He whose intellect is unattached, whose self is subdued, from whom desire has fled, attains supreme perfection of freedom from action through renunciation.”
Key Teaching: Detachment and selfcontrol lead to perfection through renunciation.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna states that one with an unattached intellect, subdued self, and no desire attains supreme perfection through renunciation, free from action’s bondage. This verse, continuing 18.48, addresses Arjuna’s inquiry (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna describes perfection, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s role, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he emphasizes renunciation, Jnana Yoga, as he highlights wisdom, and Karma Yoga, as he addresses action, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s discipline (1.28–46) aligns with this ideal, contrasting Duryodhana’s attachment (1.3–11). This teaching aligns with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Jnana Yoga (13.9), emphasizing detachment. Krishna builds on teachings about renunciation (18.2), linking it to liberation.
Philosophically, this verse defines true renunciation, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on detachment (13.9). Arjuna’s path is clarified by transcending desire. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Jnana Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on liberation through wisdom.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their liberating clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s freedom, where detachment liberates. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine detachment, aligning with liberation.
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