Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 6.2

“What is called renunciation is yoga, O Arjuna; no one becomes a yogi without renouncing selfish intent.”
Key Teaching: Renunciation is yoga; abandoning selfish intent makes one a yogi.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Dhyana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that renunciation is synonymous with yoga, and no one becomes a yogi without abandoning selfish intent. This verse, continuing 6.1, addresses Arjuna’s confusion (5.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies renunciation, and Dhyana Yoga, as he emphasizes selfless yoga, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s selfish concerns (1.28–46) hinder his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s selfish ambition (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to renounce intent for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 5.2).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human attachment to selfish motives, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selflessness (4.19–20). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to embrace selfless yoga. The theme of Dhyana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on renunciation through yoga.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its unifying clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s motives, where selflessness defines yoga. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty without selfish intent, aligning with liberation.