Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 9.28

“Thus, you shall be freed from the bonds of actions, good or evil; with the yoga of renunciation, you shall come to Me.”
Key Teaching: Offering actions to Krishna frees from bondage, leading to him.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that by offering actions to him, Arjuna will be freed from the bonds of good or evil actions, attaining him through the yoga of renunciation. This verse, continuing 9.27, addresses Arjuna’s need for liberation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies freedom from action, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of consequences (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s karmic entanglement (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to renounce action’s fruits for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 9.27). Offering frees from bondage.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human bondage to action, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on renunciation (4.20). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to dedicate actions. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on liberating devotion.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its liberating clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s karma, where offering ensures freedom. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with renounced devotion, aligning with liberation.