Chapter 5 of the Bhagavad Gita, titled “The Yoga of Renunciation of Action,” delves into the intricacies of action, renunciation, and the path to spiritual liberation. In this chapter, Arjuna seeks clarification from Lord Krishna regarding the apparent contradiction between renunciation and action. Krishna explains that both paths lead to the supreme goal of liberation, but he emphasizes the superiority of performing actions with the right attitude over renunciation. Arjuna’s dilemma stems from Krishna’s previous teachings on renunciation and action. He is confused about which path is better for achieving the ultimate goal of spiritual realization. In response, Krishna elucidates that while both renunciation (Karma Sannyas) and the performance of action (Karma Yoga) can lead to liberation, the latter is superior because it is more practical and attainable for most individuals. Krishna emphasizes that true renunciation is not merely abstaining from action but rather performing actions without attachment to the results. He describes a liberated person as one who practices renunciation, is free from desires and dualities, and remains unaffected by the fruits of their actions. The distinction between Sankhya (knowledge) and Karma yoga (the yoga of action) is addressed by Krishna, who asserts that both paths lead to the same supreme state of realization. He emphasizes that renunciation is difficult to achieve without the practice of yoga, which helps the seeker attain the state of Brahman more quickly. Krishna further explains that engaging in yoga leads to liberation from karmic entanglement. The true yogi, who has conquered ego consciousness and senses, perceives themselves as the Self existing in all beings, thus transcending the notion of being the doer of actions. The essence of Karma yoga lies in offering all actions to God without attachment, akin to a lotus leaf untouched by water. The yogi performs actions for self-purification, surrendering the results to God and attaining everlasting peace. Krishna reassures Arjuna that God does not create the sense of doership in individuals but that it is the delusive nature of cosmic consciousness. However, those whose ignorance is dispelled by divine wisdom realize the Supreme God and attain liberation. The chapter concludes with Krishna describing the characteristics of a truly learned person who sees all beings with equal vision, having conquered desires and achieved equilibrium. The yogi, abiding in the Supreme Being, experiences ever-new joy inherent in the Self and attains permanent happiness. Chapter 5 of the Bhagavad Gita provides profound insights into the nature of action, renunciation, and the path to spiritual liberation. It emphasizes the importance of performing actions selflessly, surrendering the results to God, and attaining inner peace through divine union.