Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 6.4

“When one is unattached to sense objects and actions, renouncing all intents, they are established in yoga.”
Key Teaching: Detachment from senses and intents establishes one in yoga.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Dhyana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that one unattached to sense objects and actions, renouncing all intents, is established in yoga. This verse, continuing 6.3, addresses Arjuna’s attachment (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies detachment, and Dhyana Yoga, as he emphasizes yoga’s establishment, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s sensory attachment (1.28–46) hinders his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s attached actions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to detach for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 5.11).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human bondage to senses, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on detachment (2.58–61, 5.11). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to renounce intents. The theme of Dhyana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on established yoga.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its clear detachment. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s attachments, where renunciation establishes yoga. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with detachment, aligning with liberation.