Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.55

“He who acts for Me, devoted to Me, free from attachment, without enmity toward any being, comes to Me, O Pandava.”
Key Teaching: Devotion, selfless action, and freedom from enmity lead to Krishna.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that one who acts for him, is devoted to him, free from attachment, and without enmity toward any being attains him. This verse, concluding Chapter 11, addresses Arjuna’s path to divine union (2.9, 11.54). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he defines the path, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as it concludes the vision, and Bhakti Yoga, as devotion is emphasized, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s devotion (1.28–46, 11.54) contrasts with Duryodhana’s enmity (1.3–11). This path supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Bhakti Yoga (9.26), guiding him to Krishna.

Philosophically, this verse addresses devotion and selfless action as liberation’s path, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on bhakti (9.26). Arjuna’s path reflects Krishna’s guidance through devotion. The themes of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga and Bhakti Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on divine union through love and detachment.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their conclusive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s devotion, where Krishna is reached through love. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine devotion, aligning with liberation.