Bhagavad Gītā – Chapter 18 Notes

 

This is the longest chapter of the Bhagavad Gītā. Krishna repeats his earlier statement that action is a necessary good, but that tranquillity can only be achieved when we are detached from the fruits of our actions.  He explains that renunciation is the relinquishing of those actions which are prompted by desire, whereas non-attachment is the relinquishing of the fruits of our actions.

 

This does not mean that we should renounce all action.  Certain actions, such as sacrifice, charity and austerity should always be performed, as they are uplifting and purifying.  What we should renounce is attachment to the fruits of action. (18.1-10)

 

Krishna analyses knowledge, action and agent in terms of the guṇas (18.20-28).  He does the same with understanding, determination and happiness (18.29-38), and with the social classes, stressing that each person can become perfect, provided he performs his own work well (18.47-48).  By attaining this perfection, we also attain Brahman, although there are many preconditions for attaining this state (18.50-57).  We cannot avoid acting, even for a second, because it is the Lord abiding in the heart which animates us in the first place (18.61).

 

Krishna’s final teaching is a repetition of an exhortation to Bhakti Yoga: “Fix your mind on Me, worshipping Me, sacrificing to Me, I promise, for you are dear to Me” (18.65).