Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 16.22

“One who is freed from these three gates of darkness, O Kaunteya, practices what is good and attains the supreme goal.”
Key Teaching: Freedom from lust, anger, and greed leads to the supreme goal.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna states that one freed from lust, anger, and greed practices good and attains the supreme goal. This verse, continuing 16.21, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna promotes virtuous practice, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s virtue (1.28–46) aligns with this freedom, contrasting Duryodhana’s vices (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.9), emphasizing liberation through discipline, and builds on the triple gate (16.21). Krishna highlights the path to liberation.

Philosophically, the verse underscores liberation through virtue, a theme refined with teachings on detachment (2.71). Arjuna’s path is clarified by practicing goodness. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga emphasizes liberation through renunciation. The verse connects to teachings on purity (6.14).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s liberation, where virtue leads to the supreme. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to renounce vices, aligning with moksha. The promise resonates with Arjuna’s spiritual aim.