Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 3.14

Shloka 3.14: “From food, beings arise; from rain, food is produced; from sacrifice, rain arises; sacrifice comes from action.”

Key Teaching: Sacrificedriven action sustains the cycle of life.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.

500Word Description:
Krishna explains that beings arise from food, food from rain, rain from sacrifice, and sacrifice from action, highlighting the interconnected cycle of life. This verse, building on 3.10–13, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies cosmic duty, and Karma Yoga, as he emphasizes action’s role, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s refusal to fight (1.28–46) disrupts his role in the cosmic order. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s selfinterest (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to perform his Kshatriya duty as a sacrificial act, supporting life’s cycle through Karma Yoga (2.47).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human role in sustaining existence, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on sacrifice. Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to act for cosmic harmony. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on action’s universal impact.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its cosmic perspective. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s interdependence, where action sustains existence. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty as a sacrifice, aligning with the cycle of life.