Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 5.28

Shloka 5.28

“Free from desire, fear, and anger, with senses, mind, and intellect controlled, the sage, absorbed in meditation, attains peace.”
Key Teaching: Meditation with controlled senses and emotions leads to peace.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Karma Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that a sage, free from desire, fear, and anger, with controlled senses, mind, and intellect, absorbed in meditation, attains peace. This verse, continuing 5.27, addresses Arjuna’s emotional turmoil (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies meditative discipline, and Karma Sannyasa Yoga, as he emphasizes peace, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s desire and fear (1.28–46) obstruct his Kshatriya duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s uncontrolled emotions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to meditate for discipline, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 5.23). Meditation fosters inner peace for action.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human struggle with emotions, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on self-control (2.58–61, 5.23). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to master senses through meditation. The theme of Karma Sannyasa Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on disciplined action for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its serene clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s emotional chaos, where meditation ensures peace. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with controlled senses, aligning with liberation and concluding Chapter 5’s meditative focus.