Bhagavad Gita 5.3

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5, Verse 3: The Path to Renunciation and Liberation

Sanskrit Verse:

ज्ञेयः स नित्यसंन्यासी यो न द्वेष्टि न काङ्क्षति।
निर्द्वन्द्वो हि महाबाहो सुखं बन्धात् प्रमुच्यते॥

Transliteration:

Jñeyaḥ sa nitya-sannyāsī yo na dveṣhṭi na kāṅkṣhati,
Nirdvandvo hi mahā-bāho sukhaṁ bandhāt pramuchyate.

Translation:

"He who neither hates nor desires is to be known as a true renunciate. O mighty-armed Arjuna, being free from all dualities, he is easily liberated from bondage."

"जो न तो घृणा करता है और न ही इच्छा करता है, उसे सच्चा त्यागी कहना चाहिए। हे महाबाहु अर्जुन! वह समस्त द्वन्द्वों से मुक्त होकर सरलता से बन्धन से मुक्त हो जाता है।"

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Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, Lord Krishna explains the true essence of renunciation (sannyāsa) to Arjuna. He emphasizes that a true renunciate is not someone who merely gives up worldly possessions or external duties but one who has renounced attachment and aversion from within.

1. True Renunciation (Sannyāsa)

Many believe that renunciation means leaving behind family, work, and responsibilities to live in solitude. However, Krishna clarifies that real sannyāsa is a state of mind—where one is free from desires and hatred. A person who neither longs for something nor harbors resentment toward anything is a true renunciate.

2. Rising Above Dualities (Dvandva)

The material world is filled with dualities—pleasure and pain, success and failure, joy and sorrow. One who remains equanimous in all situations and does not get disturbed by these opposites attains peace and liberation.

3. Liberation from Bondage (Bandha-mukti)

Attachment and aversion keep the soul bound to the cycle of birth and death. When a person transcends these emotions and attains inner stability, they naturally move toward spiritual freedom (moksha). Krishna assures Arjuna that such a liberated soul enjoys true bliss and freedom from suffering.

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Relevance in Modern Life

1. Emotional Stability: In today’s fast-paced world, people often get caught up in desires and disappointments. Practicing detachment from expectations can bring peace.

2. Freedom from Stress: By not getting attached to outcomes, one can focus on efforts rather than worrying about results, reducing anxiety.

3. Spiritual Growth: True renunciation is about controlling the mind rather than giving up responsibilities. A balanced mind leads to wisdom and enlightenment.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 5.3 teaches that renunciation is not about leaving the world but about living in it with a detached mind. A person who is free from likes and dislikes, and remains calm in all situations, attains ultimate liberation. By following this wisdom, one can lead a peaceful and meaningful life.