Chapter 5 of the Bhagavad Gita, titled "Karma Sannyasa Yoga" or The Yoga of Renunciation, delves into the relationship between renunciation and action. In this chapter, Lord Krishna clarifies the distinction between the path of renunciation (sannyasa) and the path of selfless action (karma yoga). He emphasizes that both paths ultimately lead to liberation, but karma yoga, where one performs duties selflessly without attachment, is often more practical and suitable for most individuals.

Krishna highlights that a true renunciate is not someone who merely gives up worldly actions but one who performs their duties without attachment to the fruits of their actions. Such a person attains inner peace and spiritual fulfillment, living in harmony with the divine order. The chapter underscores that detachment from the results of actions does not mean abandoning responsibility. Instead, it requires a shift in mindset—performing duties as an offering to the Supreme, free from selfish desires.

This chapter also introduces the concept of equality and equanimity. Krishna explains that a wise person sees all beings as equal, whether they are a learned scholar, a cow, an elephant, or even a dog. This vision of equality, born of self-realization, is a hallmark of spiritual maturity. Such a person remains unshaken by dualities like pleasure and pain, success and failure, and attains supreme bliss.

Ultimately, Krishna concludes by glorifying the state of liberation that comes from dedicating all actions to the divine, relinquishing ego, and attaining freedom from desires. This liberated soul, rooted in the Self, lives in eternal peace and experiences the ultimate union with the Supreme. Chapter 5 thus serves as a guide for living a balanced life, harmonizing spiritual ideals with practical duties.