Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5, Verse 1 (BG 5.1) — Meaning, Translation & Commentary

From Arjuna's question, it becomes clear that, unknowingly, he had already freed himself considerably from his state of despair. By listening attentively to the Lord's teachings and reflecting upon them, his mind had begun to settle. By nature, Arjuna was inclined toward action, and therefore the path of karma yoga was agreeable and acceptable to him. Yet, at many points, Sri Krishna had presented knowledge and the renunciation of action as superior to other forms of sacrifice, and this created doubt in Arjuna's mind. This was why he could not determine for himself which path to follow. Thus, the purpose of his question is to seek clarity on this matter. There is another consideration as well: one who has suffered from mental disturbance, even upon gaining some relief from that affliction, does not quickly regain complete confidence. It is the common experience of all that a person who awakens from a terrible nightmare takes some time to become fully composed and to return to sleep. Arjuna's condition was precisely the same. Even as he emerged from his state of mental anguish and confusion, he found himself unable to fully comprehend and reflect upon the teachings of his charioteer, Sri Krishna. Arjuna had concluded that the Lord was presenting before him two options: the path of karma yoga and the path of renunciation of action. Therefore, he wished to know from Sri Krishna which one of these two paths was the definite course to be followed for his own spiritual welfare. The purpose of this chapter is to clarify that these two paths are not alternatives to be chosen between, nor are they complementary practices to be undertaken simultaneously. Rather, karma yoga and the renunciation of action must be pursued in their proper sequence—one after the other, not both together. This is the subject of this chapter.