Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 2.48

Shloka 2.48

“Perform actions, O Arjuna, established in Yoga, abandoning attachment, equipoised in success and failure; equanimity is Yoga.”
Key Teaching: Equanimity in action, success, and failure defines Yoga.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.
Description: Krishna urges Arjuna to perform actions with Yoga, abandoning attachment and maintaining equanimity in success and failure, defining equanimity as Yoga. This verse elaborates Karma Yoga (2.47), addressing Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he emphasizes duty, and Karma Yoga, as he highlights equanimity, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s grief (1.28–46) reflects attachment to outcomes. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s ambition (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to fight as a Kshatriya with balance, unaffected by results, aligning with dharma. This counters his fear of sin (2.33).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human tendency to be swayed by outcomes, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selfless action. Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to maintain equanimity. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on balanced action.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its practical wisdom. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s challenges, where equanimity ensures effective action. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with balance, free from attachment to success or failure.