B.G 12.12
Indeed, knowledge is considered better than mere practice. Meditation surpasses knowledge, and the renunciation of the fruits of actions is even higher than mere meditation. From such renunciation (of fruits of action resulting from meditation possessed with right knowledge), liberation immediately follows.
Gīta Tātparya 12.12
'śāntiḥ' - liberation. The liberation arises from knowledge and renunciation, i.e. relinquishment of the fruits of the actions, combined with meditation.
"He who remembers lord Vishnu alone, without his entourage, is known as an exclusive devotee."
-stated thus.
"Their fruits are limited" (7.23) - by stating thus the worship of other deities was previously criticized. Suspecting a special proximity to Lakshmi, the current question was specifically about that worship.
"A man who consistently engages in activities dedicated to lord Vishnu, like chanting, worship, and service as prescribed for his own ashrama, lives a life of devotion.
He who worships other gods and offers the results to lord Hari is known to possess only "that connection" (tadyogamātravān).
There, the former is distinguished and superior, as he remembers the servitude of lord Vishnu in the beginning, middle, in the end, and also in the interval in-between.
A person is measured according to their ability to remember Hari in their mind. If one always desires that which is previously mentioned as suitable, they become so. For the wise, knowledge excels over improper meditation. Hence, one must understand meditation that is devoid of the desire for results.
Therefore, liberation arises clearly from knowledge and renunciation combined with meditation."
-stated thus as well.
In the context, the word 'śāntiḥ' means liberation.
