Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 3.13

Shloka 3.13: “The righteous who eat the remnants of sacrifice are freed from sins; those who cook for themselves alone sin.”

Key Teaching: Eating sacrificial remnants frees one from sin, unlike selfish consumption.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.

Description:
Krishna teaches that the righteous who eat the remnants of sacrifice are freed from sins, while those who cook only for themselves incur sin. This verse, building on 3.9–12, emphasizes sacrificial action, addressing Arjuna’s hesitation to fight (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies cosmic duty, and Karma Yoga, as he stresses selfless action, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reluctance (1.28–46) reflects attachment to personal concerns. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s selfish ambition (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to act as a sacrifice (fighting for dharma) rather than for personal gain, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47). Eating sacrificial remnants symbolizes selfless participation in cosmic order.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human tendency toward selfish actions, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on sacrifice (3.9–12). Arjuna’s hesitation complicates his Kshatriya dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to act for the greater good. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on selfless duty to avoid sin.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its ethical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s actions, where selfless participation ensures spiritual purity. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty as a sacrifice, aligning with cosmic harmony and liberation.