โศลก 5.25.15.25.35.45.55.65.75.85.95.105.115.125.135.145.155.165.175.185.195.205.215.225.235.245.255.265.275.285.29

The Blessed Lord said Renunciation and the Yoga of action both lead to the highest bliss; but of the two, the Yoga of action is superior to the renunciation of action.

The Lord said: Renunciation and the yoga of action both lead to the highest good. But of the two, the yoga of action is better than the renunciation of action.

Krishna gives the clear answer Arjuna asked for, while keeping both paths honoured. Renunciation (sannyāsa) and the yoga of action both lead to niḥśreyasa, the supreme good. Yet karmayoga is better than the formal renunciation of action. Traditions read this preference in different ways. Some say karmayoga is better for Arjuna and for most people, since it is easier and purifies the mind. Others take it as a general ranking. In context, the verse tells Arjuna plainly that he should not abandon action.