Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 4.24

Shloka 4.24

“The act of offering, the oblation, and the fire are Brahman; one who sees Brahman in action attains Brahman.”

Key Teaching: Seeing all actions as Brahman leads to divine attainment.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Yoga.

Description:
Krishna teaches that the act of offering, the oblation, and the fire are Brahman, and one who sees Brahman in all actions attains Brahman. This verse, continuing 4.23, addresses Arjuna’s doubts (3.1–2). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies divine action, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes spiritual vision, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s limited perspective (1.28–46) obscures divine reality. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s material focus (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to see his Kshatriya duty as Brahman, aligning with Karma and Jnana Yoga (2.47, 3.15).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human ignorance of divine unity, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on Brahman (3.15). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to perceive divine unity. The theme of Jnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on spiritual vision in action.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its mystical depth. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s actions, where seeing Brahman ensures liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine vision, aligning with spiritual attainment.