Action without Reaction has been the topic since text 14. Krishna explained that action becomes free of reaction when performed without selfish motive (see texts 16-24). This is the internal requisite of reactionless action, but is there an external requisite? Is there a specific type of action especially freed from reaction? The discussion now turns to this topic.
Krishna will enumerate a list of sacrificial activities, both specifically (texts 25-27) and categorically (texts 28-29). He will then explain which of these are best for reactionless action (texts 30-33).
| Note: Verses 25-27 continue the poetry Krishna introduced in verse 24, where he metaphorically compared selfless work to a sacrifice. Following this motif, we will find duties described as "offerings" into various "fires." |
Indriya samyamya-agni juhvati - Offering sensory actions in the fire of total control
This refers to renunciates who completely restrain the sensory functions.
Vishaya indriya-agni juhvati - Offering the sense objects in the fire of the senses.
This refers to those who are not renunciates, but who regulate their enjoyment of sense objects according to religious principles.
Shrota, Shabda - Hearing, Sound
Among sensory functions, hearing is singled out. Among sense objects, sound is singled out. This illustrates their importance in classical Vedic thought, which considered hearing more important than seeing - for by hearing from the right source, one could gain more reliable knowledge.