Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 6.1

Shloka 6.1

“Krishna said: One who performs prescribed duties without attachment to fruits, not the one who shuns action, is a true renunciant and yogi.”
– *Key Teaching*: True renunciation and yoga involve selfless duty, not abandoning action.
– *Theme*: Guidance, Dharma, Dhyana Yoga.
– * Description*:
Krishna teaches that a true renunciant and yogi performs prescribed duties without attachment to fruits, not one who avoids action. This verse, opening Chapter 6, addresses Arjuna’s confusion about renunciation (5.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies duty, and Dhyana Yoga, as he emphasizes selfless action, are central.

In the *Mahabharata*, Arjuna’s inclination to renounce fighting (1.28–46) misinterprets duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s selfish actions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to perform his Kshatriya duty selflessly, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 5.2).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human misconception of renunciation, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selfless action (4.18–20). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to act without attachment. The theme of Dhyana Yoga underscores the *Gita*’s focus on disciplined action for liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its practical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s duties, where selfless action defines true yoga. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty without attachment, aligning with spiritual freedom.