Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 5.24

Shloka 5.24

“One who finds happiness, joy, and light within, that yogi, united with Brahman, attains liberation.”
Key Teaching: Inner happiness and union with Brahman lead to liberation.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that a yogi finding happiness, joy, and light within, united with Brahman, attains liberation. This verse, continuing 5.23, addresses Arjuna’s attachment (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies inner joy, and Karma Sannyasa Yoga, as he emphasizes liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s external attachments (1.28–46) hinder his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s external pursuits (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to find inner joy for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 5.21).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human search for happiness, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on inner peace (2.55–72). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to seek inner light. The theme of Karma Sannyasa Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on liberated joy.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its blissful clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s happiness, where inner light ensures liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with inner joy, aligning with Brahman.