Shloka 5.20
“Unmoved by pleasant or unpleasant, with steady intellect, knowing Brahman, they rest in Brahman.”
Key Teaching: Knowing Brahman, the wise remain unmoved by dualities, resting in Brahman.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that those knowing Brahman, with steady intellect, remain unmoved by pleasant or unpleasant experiences, resting in Brahman. This verse, continuing 5.19, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies equanimity, and Karma Sannyasa Yoga, as he emphasizes divine stability, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s emotional turmoil (1.28–46) reflects instability. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s reactive actions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to remain steady for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 4.22). Stability ensures divine connection.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human sway by dualities, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on equanimity (2.38, 4.22). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to know Brahman. The theme of Karma Sannyasa Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on stable action.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its steady clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s dualities, where stability ensures divine rest. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with equanimity, aligning with Brahman.