Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 18.8

“He who abandons action due to fear of bodily pain, performing rajasic renunciation, does not attain its fruit.”
Key Teaching: Abandoning action due to fear is rajasic and fruitless.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna states that abandoning action due to fear of pain, driven by rajas, yields no spiritual fruit. This verse, continuing 18.7, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna critiques renunciation, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he warns against bondage, and Karma Yoga, as he stresses duty, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of consequences (1.28–46) risks rajasic renunciation, contrasting Duryodhana’s ambition (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (14.7) and Karma Yoga (2.47), condemning fearbased abandonment. Krishna builds on tamasic renunciation (18.7).

Philosophically, the verse critiques rajasic motives, a theme refined with teachings on rajas (14.7). Arjuna’s path is clarified by overcoming fear. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through proper action. The verse connects to teachings on action (3.27).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s courage, where fear binds. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to act without fear, aligning with moksha. The critique resonates with Arjuna’s battlefield fears.