Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 16.1

“The Blessed Lord said: Fearlessness, purity of heart, steadfastness in knowledge and yoga, charity, selfcontrol, and sacrifice…”
Key Teaching: Krishna lists divine qualities like fearlessness and purity that lead to liberation.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna begins Chapter 16 by listing divine qualities conducive to liberation: fearlessness, purity of heart, steadfastness in knowledge and yoga, charity, selfcontrol, and sacrifice. This verse, responding to Arjuna’s implied quest for guidance (2.9), introduces the distinction between divine and demonic natures. The themes of guidance, as Krishna defines virtuous qualities, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes knowledge, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, and Bhakti Yoga, as these qualities foster devotion, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s virtuous disposition (1.28–46) aligns with these qualities, contrasting Duryodhana’s demonic traits (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (4.34) and Bhakti Yoga (9.34), emphasizing virtues for spiritual growth. Krishna sets the stage for distinguishing natures (16.1–3).

Philosophically, the verse outlines qualities fostering sattva (14.6), a theme refined with teachings on liberation (14.2). Arjuna’s path is clarified by cultivating these virtues. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through divine traits. The verse connects to teachings on sattva (14.6). [](https://vedabase.io/en/library/bg/16/13/)

Sanjaya’s narration (18.74–78) ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s virtuous path, where divine qualities liberate. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to adopt fearlessness and purity, aligning with moksha. The qualities resonate with Arjuna’s potential for righteousness.