Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 17.25

“With Tat, without aiming at fruit, acts of sacrifice and austerity and various acts of charity are performed by seekers of liberation.”
Key Teaching: Seekers of liberation perform acts with Tat, without seeking reward.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Shraddha Traya Vibhaga Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that seekers of liberation perform sacrifice, austerity, and charity with Tat, without aiming at fruit. This verse, continuing 17.24, addresses Arjuna’s understanding of faith (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna describes selfless acts, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, Shraddha Traya Vibhaga Yoga, as he details faith’s practices, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, and Karma Yoga, as he highlights action, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s selflessness (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s selfishness (1.3–11). Krishna’s teaching supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Jnana Yoga (14.20), promoting selfless acts.

Philosophically, this verse addresses selfless practice, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on detachment (14.20). Arjuna’s understanding is deepened by Krishna’s guidance on Tat’s use. The themes of Shraddha Traya Vibhaga Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Karma Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on selfless action for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their selfless clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s liberation, where Tat guides selflessness. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine detachment, aligning with liberation.