Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 14.24

“Equal to pleasure and pain, selfcontained, seeing a clod, stone, and gold alike, the same in the agreeable and disagreeable, firm,”
Key Teaching: A transcendent person is equalminded, selfcontained, and views all equally.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Guna Traya Vibhaga Yoga, Jnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes one who has transcended the gunas as equal to pleasure and pain, selfcontained, seeing a clod, stone, and gold alike, and firm in the agreeable and disagreeable. This verse, continuing 14.23, addresses Arjuna’s question (2.9, 14.21). The themes of guidance, as Krishna details transcendence, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, Guna Traya Vibhaga Yoga, as he explains gunas’ transcendence, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s emotional struggles (1.28–46) contrast with Duryodhana’s bias (1.3–11). Krishna’s teaching supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Jnana Yoga (6.7), fostering equanimity.

Philosophically, this verse addresses equanimity beyond dualities, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on balance (6.7). Arjuna’s understanding is deepened by Krishna’s guidance on equality. The themes of Guna Traya Vibhaga Yoga and Jnana Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on transcending gunas for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their balanced clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s equality, where transcendence equalizes all. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine equanimity, aligning with liberation.