Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 18.5

“Acts of sacrifice, charity, and penance are not to be abandoned; they must be performed, for they purify the wise.”
Key Teaching: Sacrifice, charity, and penance purify and should not be abandoned.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna declares that sacrifice, charity, and penance should not be abandoned, as they purify the wise. This verse, continuing 18.4, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna clarifies action, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, and Karma Yoga, as he endorses action, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s duty (1.28–46) aligns with performing these acts, contrasting Duryodhana’s neglect (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (4.34) and Karma Yoga (4.25), emphasizing purifying actions. Krishna builds on tyaga’s types (18.4).

Philosophically, the verse endorses purifying actions, a theme refined with teachings on sacrifice (4.25). Arjuna’s path is clarified by performing these acts. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through purity. The verse connects to teachings on duty (3.8).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s purification, where actions elevate. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties, aligning with moksha. The endorsement resonates with Arjuna’s warrior duty.