Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 3.3

Shloka 3.3

“Krishna said: In this world, O Arjuna, two paths were taught by Me: knowledge for the contemplative and Karma Yoga for the active.”
Key Teaching: Two paths—knowledge (Sankhya) and action (Karma Yoga)—suit different temperaments.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna responds to Arjuna’s confusion (3.1–2), explaining that he taught two paths: knowledge (Sankhya) for the contemplative and Karma Yoga for the active. This verse addresses Arjuna’s hesitation to fight (2.9) by clarifying the compatibility of wisdom and action. The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies duty, and Karma Yoga, as he emphasizes selfless action, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s question (3.1–2) stems from perceiving a conflict between Sankhya’s wisdom (2.12–30) and the call to fight (2.31–38). Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s unreflective ambition (1.3–11), guiding Arjuna to follow Karma Yoga as a Kshatriya, aligning action with duty. This resolves his dilemma by tailoring paths to disposition.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human confusion between renunciation and action, a theme Krishna refines by emphasizing selfless action (2.47). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his Kshatriya dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to choose the active path. The theme of Karma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on duty without attachment.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s choices, where disposition guides the path to liberation. Krishna’s explanation prepares readers for performing duty through Karma Yoga, aligning action with spiritual wisdom.