तस्माच्छास्त्रं प्रमाणं ते कार्याकार्यव्यवस्थितौ।
ज्ञात्वा शास्त्रविधानोक्तं कर्म कर्तुमिहार्हसि।। १६.२४ ।।
Summary Translation:
One should therefore understand what is duty and what is not duty by the regulations of the scriptures. Knowing such rules and regulations, one should act so that he may gradually be elevated.
This final shloka of Chapter 16 concludes the Discourse on divine and demonic natures by providing a Command for Action. Krishna declares that Shastram (scripture) is the Pramanam (authority/evidence) in determining Karya-akarya (what is to be done and what is not to be done). This Standard is Absolute. By Jnattva (knowing) the scriptural rules, one should Kartum-arhasy (perform their duty) in this world. This Instruction ensures that Human Will is Guided toward Evolution. For a Hindu, this is the Climax of the chapter—the realization that Dharma is not a matter of Opinion but of Revelation. Krishna is Identifying that the Path to Elevation is found in the Discipline of the shastras. The Significance of this shloka is that it provides a Solution to the Chaos of the demonic mind. By accepting scriptural Authority, the soul is Protected from the Gates of hell. Krishna’s Diagnosis proves that Success depends on Obedience to the Laws of the Supreme Lord. This verse acts as a Bridge to the next chapter, emphasizing the Importance of Faith (Shraddha) in following the shastras. It reinforces the Truth that the Goal of life is to act as a Instrument of the Divine. Ultimately, Advancement requires a Commitment to Purity as defined by the Scriptures. This final Summary confirms that Wisdom is the Foundation of Righteousness.