Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 4.28

Shloka 4.28

“Some offer wealth, austerity, or yoga as sacrifice; others, ascetics, offer study and knowledge with strict vows.”

Key Teaching: Yogis sacrifice wealth, austerity, yoga, or knowledge through disciplined practices.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Yoga.

Description:
Krishna describes yogis who sacrifice wealth, austerity, or yoga, while ascetics offer study and knowledge with strict vows. This verse, continuing 4.25–27, addresses Arjuna’s doubts (3.1–2). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies diverse sacrifices, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes spiritual practices, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s confusion (2.9) reflects ignorance of spiritual paths. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s material focus (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to perform his Kshatriya duty as sacrifice, aligning with Karma and Jnana Yoga (2.47, 3.9).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human diversity of spiritual practices, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on sacrifice (3.9–16). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to embrace sacrificial action. The theme of Jnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on varied paths to liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its inclusive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s spiritual efforts, where diverse sacrifices lead to liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty as sacrifice, aligning with spiritual discipline.