Verse 18-2

श्रीभगवानुवाच |

काम्यानां कर्मणां न्यासं सन्न्यासं कवयो विदु: |

सर्वकर्मफलत्यागं प्राहुस्त्यागं विचक्षणा: || 2 ||

“The Supreme Lord said:
The wise understand that renunciation of selfish actions is called sannyasa, and the relinquishment of the fruits of all actions is called tyāga, O discerning ones.”
 
 

Commentary

Lord Krishna responds to Arjuna’s inquiry about renunciation and detachment. He begins by stating that the learned individuals, known as kavayah (the wise or enlightened), recognize the true nature of renunciation and detachment.

 

Renunciation of desire-driven actions, performed with attachment to the fruits, is known as sannyasa. It implies letting go of self-centered motives and egoistic desires when engaging in actions. It is a state of inner renunciation where one performs actions without seeking personal gain or gratification. Such renunciation is considered essential for spiritual growth and liberation.

 

Lord Krishna introduces the concept of tyāga, which refers to renouncing the attachment to the results of all actions. It involves offering the fruits of one’s actions to a higher power or divine consciousness, without any expectation or attachment to the outcomes. Tyāga involves recognizing that the results are not within our control and surrendering them to the divine will.

 

The enlightened individuals, possessing discernment and spiritual insight, understand that true renunciation and detachment encompass both the abandonment of selfish desires in actions (sannyasa) and the surrender of the outcomes to a higher power (tyāga).

 

By elucidating these concepts, Lord Krishna highlights the importance of selfless action and detachment from the results. He lays the foundation for understanding the significance of renunciation and the practice of offering the fruits of one’s actions, guiding individuals towards a path of spiritual growth, selflessness, and ultimate liberation.