Arjuna is confused by two of Krishna’s statements from the previous chapter: first, use intelligence rather than just act; and second, fight, which seems to be a ghastly activity (03.01). Therefore, he seeks to know clearly what will serve his long-term wellbeing (03.02). 

Krishna replies that he has outlined two paths: the path of philosophical analysis that involves renunciation of action (jnana-yoga) and the path of detached action (karma-yoga) (03.03). Addressing common misconceptions about renunciation, Krishna states that mere abstinence from action doesn’t free one from karmic reactions, nor does mere renunciation of work lead to perfection (03.04). Indeed, embodied beings can’t abstain entirely from action, even for a moment (03.05). Those who abstain externally from action while internally dwelling on worldly objects deceive not just others but even themselves (03.06). Better to regulate, rather than eliminate, action and do one’s duty dispassionately (03.07). Without working, one can’t even maintain one’s own body (03.08). 

Anticipating Arjuna’s concern that work will lead to bondage, Krishna exhorts him to work in a mood of sacrifice (03.09). Explaining the importance of sacrifice, Krishna states that it was ordained since time immemorial by the creator as the desire-fulfiller for humanity (03.10). When humans satisfy the gods through such sacrifices, those cosmic administrators in turn satisfy humans by providing for their needs, thereby laying the foundation for progress toward life’s ultimate purpose (03.11). Those who take cosmic provisions without performing sacrifices are thieves in the eyes of the cosmic government (03.12). Those who perform sacrifices are cleansed of all impurities, where those who don’t, living only for self-gratification, sentence themselves to sinful reactions (03.13). All living beings need food, which comes from rains, which come when the gods are satisfied by human sacrifices, which are done by dutiful humans (03.14). Duties are outlined in the Vedas, which come from the Supreme — indeed, the all-pervading Supreme is ever-accessible through sacrifice (03.15). Those who don’t do their part in this cosmic cycle by performing sacrifices incur sin and waste the opportunity for spiritual growth available to humans (03.16).