In this verse, Lord Krishna imparts profound wisdom to Arjuna regarding the nature of true renunciation and its relationship with the path of yoga.

The verse begins with the statement "yam sannyasamiti prahur yogaṁ," which means that what is known as renunciation is, in fact, yoga. Here, Krishna is pointing out that true renunciation is not merely about outwardly abandoning worldly duties or possessions but rather about internal detachment and self-discipline.

Krishna then asserts, "na hyasaṁnyastasaṅkalpo yogī bhavati kaśchana," which means that indeed, no one becomes a yogi without renouncing the desires in the mind. This statement emphasizes the importance of mental renunciation in the practice of yoga. It suggests that true yoga is not achievable unless one has relinquished attachment to desires and cravings at the level of the mind.

The term "sankalpa" refers to desires, ambitions, or mental resolutions. Krishna emphasizes that a yogi, or spiritual aspirant, cannot attain the state of yoga if their mind is still entangled in desires and attachments. True yoga requires inner purity and control over the mind, which can only be achieved through renunciation of desires and ego.

This verse underscores the essence of the yogic path, which is the cultivation of inner detachment and self-mastery. It teaches that true renunciation is not about renouncing external objects alone but, more importantly, about letting go of the attachment to desires and expectations within the mind.

Krishna's teachings in this verse highlight the transformative power of mental renunciation in the practice of yoga. By transcending desires and cultivating inner detachment, individuals can attain true yoga, which leads to spiritual liberation and union with the divine.