Shloka 3.28: “The wise, knowing the truth of gunas and actions, remain unattached, realizing gunas act upon gunas.”
Key Teaching: The wise remain unattached, knowing gunas drive actions.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.
500Word Description:
Krishna teaches that the wise, understanding the gunas’ role in actions, remain unattached, realizing that gunas act upon gunas. This verse, continuing 3.27, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies action’s nature, and Karma Yoga, as he emphasizes detachment, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s attachment (1.28–46) reflects ignorance of the gunas. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s egodriven actions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to fight without attachment, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47). The wise see actions as guna interactions, not personal doership.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human delusion of personal agency, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on the gunas (2.45). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to act with detachment. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on liberated action.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s actions, where understanding gunas fosters detachment. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty without attachment, aligning with spiritual wisdom.
Discover more from Online Gita
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.