Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 18.56

“Even doing all actions always, taking refuge in Me, by My grace he attains the eternal, imperishable abode.”
Key Teaching: Taking refuge in Krishna grants the eternal abode by His grace.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that one who performs all actions while taking refuge in Him attains the eternal, imperishable abode by His grace. This verse, continuing 18.55, addresses Arjuna’s inquiry (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna emphasizes refuge, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s role, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he discusses liberation, Karma Yoga, as he addresses action, and Bhakti Yoga, as he stresses devotion, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s surrender (1.28–46) aligns with this refuge, contrasting Duryodhana’s ego (1.3–11). This teaching aligns with Bhakti Yoga (9.34) and Karma Yoga (2.47), emphasizing grace. Krishna builds on teachings about surrender (18.55), linking it to liberation.

Philosophically, this verse integrates Karma and Bhakti Yoga, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on grace (9.29). Arjuna’s path is clarified by surrendering actions to Krishna. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Bhakti Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on divine grace for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their gracious clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s surrender, where grace leads to liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine refuge, aligning with liberation.