Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 12.17

“He who neither rejoices nor hates, neither grieves nor strives, renouncing good and evil, full of devotion, is dear to Me.”
Key Teaching: Krishna cherishes the devotee who is detached and devoted.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes a devotee who neither rejoices nor hates, neither grieves nor strives, renounces good and evil, and is full of devotion as dear to him. This verse, continuing 12.16, addresses Arjuna’s spiritual ideal (2.9, 12.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna defines devotee qualities, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, and Bhakti Yoga, as he emphasizes detachment, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s struggles (1.28–46) contrast with Duryodhana’s enmity (1.3–11). These qualities support Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Bhakti Yoga (12.16), fostering detachment.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the devotee’s transcendence of dualities, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on equanimity (6.7). Arjuna’s path is clarified by Krishna’s guidance on detachment. The theme of Bhakti Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on devoted transcendence for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their detached clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s balance, where Krishna cherishes detached devotion. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine transcendence, aligning with liberation.