Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 2.57

Shloka 2.57

“He who is unattached to everything, neither rejoicing nor despising when obtaining good or evil, has steady wisdom.”
Key Teaching: A sage remains unattached, neither rejoicing nor despising outcomes.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Sthita-Prajna.
Description:
Krishna teaches that a steady-minded sage remains unattached, neither rejoicing in good nor despising evil outcomes, maintaining steady wisdom. This verse continues the sthita-prajna’s traits (2.55–56), addressing Arjuna’s attachment (1.28–46). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies duty, and sthita-prajna, as he emphasizes detachment, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s grief over kin (1.26–27) reflects attachment to outcomes. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s desire for victory (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to adopt the sage’s detachment to fulfill his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47–48).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human tendency to react to outcomes, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on equanimity. Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to remain unattached. The theme of sthita-prajna underscores the Gita’s focus on balanced wisdom.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s dualities, where detachment ensures stability. Krishna’s description prepares readers for performing duty without attachment, emulating the sage’s steady wisdom.