Commentary

Commentary

Krishna now analyzes the structure of action from two perspectives. First, there are three factors that motivate action: knowledge (jnanam), the object to be known (jneyam), and the knower (parijnata). Second, there are three factors that constitute action: the instruments or senses (karanam), the action itself (karma), and the doer (karta).

These three motivational factors and three constituent factors together explain the complete mechanics of any human activity. Before any action is performed, the human being first thinks, experiences, and desires — this is the motivational triad. Knowledge arises, an object presents itself to be known, and a knower processes the experience. From this arises the impulse to act.

The actual performance then requires the constituent triad: sense organs and instruments through which to act, the action itself, and the doer who executes it. Any action performed by any human being — whether a great ritual or a mundane task — can be analyzed through these six factors.

Understanding these factors is not merely academic. It prepares the ground for Krishna’s next teaching: that knowledge, action, and the doer each come in three varieties according to the three gunas. This systematic analysis helps the seeker understand their own nature and make choices that lead toward liberation.