Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 5.13

Shloka 5.13

“Renouncing all actions mentally, the self-controlled rest in the city of nine gates, neither acting nor causing action.”
Key Teaching: Mentally renouncing actions, the self-controlled rest without acting.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that the self-controlled, mentally renouncing all actions, rest in the body (the city of nine gates), neither acting nor causing action. This verse, continuing 5.12, addresses Arjuna’s hesitation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies mental renunciation, and Karma Sannyasa Yoga, as he emphasizes non-agency, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s mental attachment (1.28–46) binds him to action. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s ego-driven acts (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to renounce actions mentally for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 4.18).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human illusion of agency, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on the self (2.12–25). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to rest in detachment. The theme of Karma Sannyasa Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on mental renunciation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its metaphorical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for the body as a city, where mental renunciation ensures freedom. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty without agency, aligning with liberation.