Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 18.47

“Better is one’s own duty, though imperfect, than another’s duty well performed; doing action ordained by one’s nature, one incurs no sin.”
Key Teaching: One’s own duty, even imperfect, is better than another’s duty.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna asserts that one’s own duty, even if imperfect, is better than performing another’s duty well, as action aligned with one’s nature incurs no sin. This verse, continuing 18.46, addresses Arjuna’s inquiry (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna emphasizes own duty, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s role, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he discusses action, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, and Karma Yoga, as he underscores duty, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s hesitation to fight (1.28–46) is countered by Krishna’s call to Kshatriya duty (2.31). This teaching aligns with Karma Yoga (3.35) and Jnana Yoga (14.5), emphasizing natural duty. Krishna builds on teachings about dharma (18.41–44), reinforcing role alignment.

Philosophically, this verse prioritizes authenticity in duty, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on svadharma (3.35). Arjuna’s path is clarified by embracing his Kshatriya role. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Karma Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on authentic action for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their practical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s authenticity, where own duty liberates. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine alignment, aligning with liberation.