偈颂 8.118.18.28.38.48.58.68.78.88.98.108.118.128.138.148.158.168.178.188.198.208.218.228.238.248.258.268.278.28

That which is declared Imperishable by those who know the Vedas, that which the self-controlled (ascetics or Sannyasins) and passion-free enter, that desiring which celibacy is practised that goal I will declare to thee in brief.

That which knowers of the Veda call the Imperishable, which ascetics free of passion enter, and wishing for which people live a life of celibacy, that goal I will declare to you in brief.

Krishna introduces a short teaching on the highest goal. It is what knowers of the Veda call the Imperishable (akṣara), what ascetics free from passion enter, and what people seek when they live a life of brahmacarya, celibate discipline. He promises to describe it briefly. The verse unites different paths, learning, renunciation and disciplined life, as pointing to the same goal. It sets up a description of a meditative practice for the time of death that follows in the next verses.