Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 9.9

“These actions do not bind Me, O Arjuna; I remain unattached, neutral to them.”
Key Teaching: Krishna’s cosmic actions do not bind him, as he remains unattached.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that his cosmic actions, like creation, do not bind him, as he remains unattached and neutral. This verse, continuing 9.8, addresses Arjuna’s need to understand divine detachment (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies nonbinding action, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes transcendence, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s attachment to outcomes (1.28–46) contrasts with Krishna’s detachment, unlike Duryodhana’s entanglement (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to emulate detachment for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 9.8). Detachment frees Krishna.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human bondage to action, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on detachment (4.20, 9.8). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to act without attachment. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on liberated action.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its detached clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s actions, where detachment ensures freedom. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with unattached action, aligning with liberation.