Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 5.12

Shloka 5.12

“The disciplined, renouncing fruits, attain peace; the undisciplined, attached to fruits, are bound by desire.”
Key Teaching: Renouncing action’s fruits brings peace; attachment binds through desire.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that the disciplined, renouncing action’s fruits, attain peace, while the undisciplined, attached to fruits, are bound by desire. This verse, continuing 5.11, addresses Arjuna’s fear of consequences (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies peace, and Karma Sannyasa Yoga, as he contrasts outcomes, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s attachment to outcomes (1.28–46) prevents peace. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s desire-driven actions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to renounce fruits for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 4.20).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human bondage to desire, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on detachment (2.47–48). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to achieve peace. The theme of Karma Sannyasa Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on peace through renunciation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its contrasting clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s desires, where renunciation ensures peace. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty without attachment, aligning with liberation.