Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 18.14

“The body, the doer, the instruments, the functions, and the fifth, divine destiny—these are the causes.”
Key Teaching: Five causes of action: body, doer, instruments, functions, destiny.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna lists the five causes of action: the body, the doer, the instruments, the functions, and divine destiny. This verse, continuing 18.13, addresses Arjuna’s quest for understanding (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna explains Sankhya’s causes, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he dissects action, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, and Karma Yoga, as he addresses action, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s actions (1.28–46) contrast with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). This teaching aligns with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Jnana Yoga (13.21), analyzing action’s components. Krishna builds on Sankhya teachings (13.21), detailing action’s causes.

Philosophically, this verse dissects action’s mechanics, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on causality (13.21). Arjuna’s understanding is deepened by analyzing action’s roots. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Jnana Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on wise action for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their analytical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s mechanics, where understanding causes liberates. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine wisdom, aligning with liberation.