Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 13.25

“Some behold the self in the self by meditation, others by Sankhya, others by Karma Yoga.”
Key Teaching: The self is realized through meditation, Sankhya, or Karma Yoga.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Karma Yoga, Dhyana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that some realize the self through meditation, others through Sankhya (knowledge), and others through Karma Yoga. This verse, continuing 13.24, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna offers paths, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes knowledge, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, Karma Yoga, as he includes action, and Dhyana Yoga, as he highlights meditation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s multifaceted path (1.28–46) aligns with these approaches, contrasting Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (4.34), Karma Yoga (2.47), and Dhyana Yoga (6.12), offering multiple paths. Krishna builds on liberation (13.24).

Philosophically, the verse validates diverse paths, a theme refined with teachings on yoga (6.12). Arjuna’s path is clarified by choosing a suitable path. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through practice. The verse connects to teachings on paths (4.11).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s diverse paths, where practice liberates. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to choose a path, aligning with moksha. The options resonate with Arjuna’s versatile nature.