Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 18.18

“Knowledge, the known, and the knower are the threefold impulse to action; the instrument, action, and agent are the threefold basis of action.”
Key Teaching: Action has a threefold impulse (knowledge, known, knower) and basis (instrument, action, agent).
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that knowledge, the known, and the knower form the threefold impulse to action, while the instrument, action, and agent form its threefold basis. This verse, continuing 18.17, addresses Arjuna’s quest for understanding (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna analyzes action, 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 (3.27) and Jnana Yoga (13.21), analyzing action’s components. Krishna builds on Sankhya teachings (18.13), detailing action’s structure.

Philosophically, this verse dissects action’s framework, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on causality (13.21). Arjuna’s understanding is deepened by analyzing action’s elements. 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 actions, where understanding structure liberates. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine wisdom, aligning with liberation.