Chapter 18
Yog through the Perfection of Renunciation and Surrender
This chapter marks the conclusion of the revered Bhagavad Gita.
Arjuns question 16
Verse 1
Arjuna inquires Shri Krishna about the distinction between "sanyas" (renunciation of actions) and "tyag" (renunciation of desire for the results of actions).
Shri Krishnas Answer 16
Verse 2 and 3
Initially, Shri Krishna explains the common perceptions:
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Sanyas (Renunciation): Seen as abstaining from actions driven by desires.
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Tyag (Relinquishment): Seen as detaching from or not desiring the outcomes of actions.
Various wise individuals assert diverse views. Some suggest that all actions inherently involve negativity and should be abandoned. Conversely, others argue that acts of sacrifice, charity, and penance should never be abandoned.
Verse 4 to 6
Shri Krishna proceeds to offer his perspective on relinquishment. He delineates three types of relinquishments: Saatvik (mode of goodness), Rajsik (mode of passion), and Tamsik (mode of ignorance). He asserts that acts like sacrifice, charity, and penance should always be upheld, as they purify the wise. These actions, along with other duties, should be performed without attachment or anticipation of rewards. Shri Krishna affirms that this is his definitive and supreme decree.
Verse 7 to 9
Shri Krishna underscores the importance of adhering to one's prescribed duties, such as fulfilling responsibilities towards family. He elaborates on the different types of relinquishments and emphasizes the necessity of internal relinquishment. He categorizes these modes as follows:
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Abandoning duties due to laziness is Tamsik relinquishment.
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Refraining from duties due to their difficulty is Rajsik relinquishment.
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Performing duties selflessly without seeking rewards is Saatvik relinquishment.
Verse 10 and 11
Individuals who neither shun unpleasant tasks in challenging situations nor exclusively pursue enjoyable tasks in favourable conditions are characterized by genuine relinquishment in the mode of goodness (satvik). Shri Krishna adds that completely abstaining from work is impractical, but those who let go of attachment to the outcomes of their actions are truly practicing relinquishment.
Verse 12
Individuals who remain attached to the results of their actions experience either pleasurable, unpleasant, or mixed outcomes even after death. However, for those who are not bound by attachment to the fruits of their actions, there are no such rewards either in this world or after death.
Verse 13 to 17
Shri Krishna reveals the five factors that contribute to every action and can help manage the effects of Karma. Whether we perform actions through our body, mind, or speech, these factors play a role:
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The physical body
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The soul (which motivates and identifies with actions through the mind and ego)
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The five senses (sight, touch, hearing, smell, taste)
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Divine blessings
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Individual efforts
Those who believe that they alone are responsible for their actions, whether good or bad, have a limited perspective. On the other hand, those who are free from the ego of being the sole doer and are detached from the outcomes of their actions, are not bound by the effects of their karma.
Verse 18
There are three factors that drive an action: the individual ("knower") who possesses the knowledge of the action's outcome ("object of knowledge"). Additionally, an action comprises three elements: the means of action, the action itself, and the doer.
Verse 19 to 39
Shri Krishna explains that knowledge, action, and the doer are categorized into three types, each aligned with the three modes of nature. He also elucidates the role of intellect (understanding) and determination in guiding an individual's actions in terms of their quality and quantity. Lastly, he discusses the concept of bliss (happiness).
Verse 40 to 44
Shri Krishna further explains that all beings, whether on Earth or in higher celestial realms, are subject to the influence of the three modes of nature. He clarifies that the responsibilities and duties of Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras are allocated based on their inherent qualities (mentioned below), which correspond to the prevailing modes of nature within them.
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Brahmins: Calmness, self-control, self-discipline, purity, patience, honesty, knowledge, wisdom, faith in Vedas and scriptures, belief in God and afterlife, study and teaching of Vedas.
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Kshatriya: Courage, strength, endurance, martial skills, unwavering determination in battle, generosity in charity, leadership qualities.
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Vaishya: Farming, cattle rearing, honest business.
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Shudra: Dedicated service through work.
Verse 45 to 47
By faithfully fulfilling one's inherent duties, one can attain perfection. It is better to perform the duties that align with one's natural disposition, even if done imperfectly, than to attempt tasks that do not naturally suit one's nature. Engaging in one's innate duties is akin to worshiping God.
Verse 48 and 49
Even if one encounters imperfections in their inherent duties, they should not forsake them, as no task is flawless. Work should be carried out without attachment.
Verse 50 to 53
Shri Krishna commences his explanation about how even a Karm Yogi (one who practices selfless action) can attain him. The person possessing the following qualities can achieve this:
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Pure intellect
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Controlled senses
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Unbiased by love or hatred
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Finds solace in solitude
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Eats in moderation
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Masters body, mind, and speech
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Persistent in meditation, practices detachment
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Devoid of ego, violence, pride, desire, possessiveness, and selfishness
Verse 54 and 55
By cultivating attachment to Shri Krishna, devotion naturally flourishes. This devotion leads to a profound understanding of him, and through this understanding, one becomes fully absorbed in his essence.
Verse 56 to 58
Furthermore, Shri Krishna asserts that those who mentally dedicate themselves to him become wholly immersed in his divine presence. Those who consistently align themselves with the divine will and remain humble, even while fulfilling their responsibilities, attain the state of Yog or union with the Supreme.
Verse 59 to 63
Moving forward, Shri Krishna offers guidance to Arjuna. He cautions that if Arjuna lets his pride influence him to avoid fighting, his inherent nature will inevitably compel him to engage. Shri Krishna emphasizes that the Supreme Lord resides within all beings, steering the soul into its current body according to past karma. He urges Arjuna to surrender to him in order to attain the ultimate purpose. Concluding his discourse, Shri Krishna reminds Arjuna that he has provided knowledge, and it is now up to Arjuna to deeply contemplate and make his own choices. Everyone receives a divine call, yet the decision to heed that call rests with their free will.
Verse 64 to 67
In a final message, Shri Krishna reassures Arjuna of their close bond and reiterates his supreme teachings. He emphasizes that Arjuna should wholeheartedly surrender and devote himself to Shri Krishna. By doing so, Arjuna can transcend all material actions and reach the ultimate spiritual destination. Shri Krishna also cautions that these profound instructions of the Holy Gita should not be shared with those lacking unwavering faith in him.
Verse 68 and 69
Shri Krishna affirms that among his devotees, those who teach the Bhagavad Gita hold a special place. They perform the most significant act of loving service and will undoubtedly attain him. These devoted teachers are particularly beloved by him.
Verse 70 and 71
Individuals who read or listen to the Bhagavad Gita with a sincere and devoted mind will attain the realm where virtuous souls reside.
Verse 72 and 73
Concluding their conversation, Lord Krishna asks Arjuna if his doubts about engaging in the war have been resolved. Arjuna responds that his uncertainties have been dispelled through the grace of Lord Krishna, and he is now prepared to follow his divine guidance.
Verse 74 - 78
Sanjaya then shares his profound experience, expressing his gratitude for the blessings of the sage Vyasa that allowed him to hear the divine discourse between Lord Krishna and Arjuna. He recounts how he is filled with exhilaration and awe after witnessing the conclusion of their conversation. Sanjaya's heart is filled with joy as he revisits the dialogue repeatedly and reflects on the magnificent cosmic form of Lord Krishna. In his final words, Sanjaya declares that wherever Lord Krishna and Arjuna are present, victory, righteousness, abundance, and prosperity will always prevail.