The term Sankhya Yoga is often used to describe the second chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna begins to guide Arjuna out of his inner crisis. “Sankhya” refers to the ancient Indian philosophy of enumeration—essentially, a way of understanding reality by breaking it down into its basic elements. In the Gita, this analytical clarity becomes the first step on the spiritual path. Krishna uses this method to help Arjuna begin seeing beyond his confusion and emotions.
At the heart of Sankhya Yoga is the power of discernment: the ability to recognize what is eternal and unchanging—the Self—from what is temporary and passing, like the body or emotions. Arjuna is caught in deep sorrow, unwilling to fight a war against his own kin. Krishna reminds him that while the physical body can perish, the Atman, the true Self, is beyond harm—eternal and indestructible. With this understanding, action becomes clearer. To act in alignment with truth is not cruelty, but dharma. And so, Krishna urges him: rise, take your bow, and do your duty—not out of attachment, but from wisdom.
