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Episode Synopsis:

Arjuna asks - which is better selfless action or renunciation (sannyasa)?

Both lead to the goal but action is better

Sannyasa - works but Krishna prefers Selfless service

“The immature think that knowledge and action are different, but the wise see them as the same.”

“The goal of knowledge and the goal of service are the same; those who fail to see this are blind”

Sankhya and Yoga - here in the Gita - theory and practice

“When there is no selfish involvement in work, the worker does not come to spiritual harm”

“Krishna warns Arjuna that a life of work, even successful work, cannot be fulfilling without Self-knowledge. Ultimately, the true Self within him is not affected by what he does, whether good or bad. Only knowledge of the Self, which rises like the sun at dawn, can fulfill the purpose of his life and lead him beyond rebirth.”

Selfless service is how you avoid taking on karmas

Ishvara Pranidhana - Give every action to God.

Equal vision - Atman and Brahman

Knowledge of God and Self - merging

“15 The Lord does not partake in the good and evil deeds of any person; judgment is clouded when wisdom is obscured by ignorance. 16 But ignorance is destroyed by knowledge of the Self within.”

“The last three verses of the chapter describe a state of profound meditation called samadhi. When meditation becomes very deep, breathing becomes slow, steady, and even, and the windows of the senses close to all outward sensations. Next the faculties of the mind quiet down, resting from their usually frantic activity; even the primal emotions of desire, fear, and anger subside. When all these sensory and emotional tides have ceased to flow, then the spirit is free, mukta – at least for the time being. It has entered the state called samadhi.”

The experience of Unity or Sameness

“27 Closing their eyes, steadying their breathing, and focusing their attention on the center of spiritual consciousness, 28 the wise master their senses, mind, and intellect through meditation. Self-realization is their only goal. Freed from selfish desire, fear, and anger, they live in freedom always. 29 Knowing me as the friend of all creatures, the Lord of the universe, the end of all offerings and all spiritual disciplines, they attain eternal peace.”

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