Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 13.32

“Being beginningless and without gunas, the imperishable supreme self, though dwelling in the body, neither acts nor is tainted, O Bharata.”
Key Teaching: The supreme self is actionless and untainted despite dwelling in the body.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes the supreme self as beginningless, without gunas, imperishable, and neither acting nor tainted despite dwelling in the body. This verse, continuing 13.31, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna exalts the self, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reverence for the self (11.9–46) aligns with this truth, contrasting Duryodhana’s delusion (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (2.20), emphasizing the self’s transcendence, and builds on unity (13.31). Krishna stresses the self’s purity.

Philosophically, the verse highlights the self’s transcendence, a theme refined with teachings on the self (2.20). Arjuna’s path is clarified by recognizing the self’s nondoership. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through knowledge. The verse connects to teachings on transcendence (14.19).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s purity, where the self remains untainted. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to discern the self, aligning with moksha. The description resonates with Arjuna’s spiritual quest.