Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 3.15

Shloka 3.15: “Action arises from Brahman, and Brahman comes from the Imperishable; thus, sacrifice is rooted in Brahman.”

Key Teaching: Sacrifice, rooted in Brahman, connects action to the eternal.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.

500Word Description:
Krishna teaches that action arises from Brahman (cosmic order), which originates from the Imperishable, rooting sacrifice in Brahman. This verse, building on 3.14, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9) by linking action to the divine. The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies cosmic duty, and Karma Yoga, as he emphasizes sacrificial action, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s refusal (1.28–46) ignores his role in the divine order. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s material focus (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to fight as a sacrificial act aligned with Brahman, supporting Karma Yoga (2.47).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human disconnection from divine purpose, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on sacrifice. Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his Kshatriya dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to act divinely. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on action rooted in the eternal.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its spiritual depth. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s purpose, where action connects to the divine. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty as a sacrifice, aligning with Brahman and liberation.