Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 5.11

Shloka 5.11

“Yogis act with body, mind, intellect, and senses, without attachment, to purify the self.”
Key Teaching: Yogis act without attachment to purify the self through all faculties.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that yogis act with body, mind, intellect, and senses, without attachment, to purify the self. This verse, continuing 5.10, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies purifying action, and Karma Sannyasa Yoga, as he emphasizes detachment, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s attachment (1.28–46) impedes his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s attached actions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to act as a Kshatriya without attachment, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 4.21). Detached action purifies the self.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human need for purification, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on detachment (4.20–21). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to act for purification. The theme of Karma Sannyasa Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on pure action.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its practical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s actions, where detachment purifies. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty without attachment, aligning with spiritual purity.