Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 14.5

“Sattva, rajas, and tamas, these gunas born of nature, bind the imperishable soul to the body, O mightyarmed.”
Key Teaching: The three gunas bind the soul to the body.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that sattva, rajas, and tamas, born of prakriti, bind the imperishable soul to the body. This verse, continuing 14.4, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna introduces the gunas, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he highlights bondage, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s struggle (1.28–46) reflects the gunas’ influence, contrasting Duryodhana’s tamasic nature (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.9), explaining bondage, and builds on creation (14.4). Krishna introduces the gunas’ binding power.

Philosophically, the verse reveals the gunas’ role in bondage, a theme refined with teachings on the soul (2.20). Arjuna’s path is clarified by understanding the gunas. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through discernment. The verse connects to teachings on bondage (5.13).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s bondage, where gunas trap the soul. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to transcend gunas, aligning with moksha. The explanation resonates with Arjuna’s liberation quest.