Topic

Arjuna's question

2 verses from the Bhagavad Gita on Arjuna's question. Explore teachings across 2 chapters.

All Verses

Arjuna uvaca: Sannyasam karmanam krishna punar yogam ca shamsasi, yac chreya etayor ekam tan me bruhi su-nishchitam

Arjuna asks Krishna to clarify definitively which is better — renunciation of action or the performance of action with devotion — since Krishna seems to praise both. This opening question frames the entire chapter's inquiry into true sannyasa versus karma yoga.

  • Sincere inquiry is the beginning of wisdom
  • Apparent contradictions in spiritual teaching invite deeper reflection
  • The student must seek clarity rather than remain confused
Arjuna uvācha: evaṁ satata-yuktā ye bhaktās tvāṁ paryupāsate, ye chāpy akṣharam avyaktaṁ teṣhāṁ ke yoga-vittamāḥ

Arjuna asked: Of those who are ever steadfast and worship You with devotion, and those who worship the imperishable unmanifest — which of them are better versed in yoga?

  • Two paths to the divine: personal devotion and worship of the formless
  • Arjuna asks a profound comparative question
  • The question opens the heart of bhakti yoga