Shloka 3.19: “Therefore, perform your prescribed duty without attachment; by selfless action, one attains the Supreme.”
Key Teaching: Selfless action leads to the Supreme, fulfilling prescribed duty.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.
500Word Description:
Krishna urges Arjuna to perform his prescribed duty without attachment, stating that selfless action leads to the Supreme. This verse, building on 3.17–18, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he emphasizes duty, and Karma Yoga, as he stresses selfless action, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s refusal to fight (1.28–46) reflects attachment. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s selfish ambition (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to fight as a Kshatriya without attachment, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) to attain liberation.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human attachment to outcomes, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selfless action (2.47–48). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to act selflessly. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on attaining the Supreme through duty.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its spiritual clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s duties, where selfless action leads to liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty without attachment, aligning with the Supreme.
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