Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 4.41

Shloka 4.41

“One who has renounced actions through yoga, destroyed doubt by knowledge, and is selfpossessed is not bound, O Arjuna.”

Key Teaching: Yoga, knowledge, and selfpossession free one from action’s bondage.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Yoga.

500Word Description:
Krishna teaches that one who renounces actions through yoga, destroys doubt with knowledge, and remains selfpossessed is not bound by actions. This verse, continuing 4.40, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies liberation, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes knowledge and yoga, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s doubts (1.28–46) bind him to inaction. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s bound ambition (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to use yoga and knowledge for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma and Jnana Yoga (2.47, 4.18). Selfpossession ensures freedom from karma.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human bondage to doubt, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on yoga (2.48, 4.18). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to achieve liberation through knowledge. The theme of Jnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on unbound action.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its liberating clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s bondage, where yoga and knowledge ensure freedom. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with selfpossession, aligning with liberation.