Chapter 3
Explanation of how to perform work (Karm)
In this chapter, Shri Krishna explores the principles of Karma Yoga, providing detailed advice on managing actions on both physical and mental levels. The goal is to escape the cycle of birth and death. Additionally, Shri Krishna tackles Arjuna's challenging question: Why do people commit sins even when they know their actions are wrong?
Verse 1 and 2
Arjun’s question 3: A perplexed Arjun questions Shri Krishna about the apparent contradiction: if the path of knowledge (Sankhya Yoga) is superior to the path of action (Karma Yoga), then why does Shri Krishna urge him to fight in the sacred battle? This dilemma reflects the views of many who think that true liberation (moksha) is attained by renouncing the world. Arjuna asks Shri Krishna to clearly direct him on which path is better for his journey.
Shri Krishna’s Answer 3: Shri Krishna answered Arjuna's third question by recommending alignment with one's innate nature. Suppressing inherent tendencies leads to negative outcomes. Instead, one should refine and channel natural inclinations following the teachings of the Holy Bhagavad Gita, progressing towards perfection. Shri Krishna expands on this in Chapter 4.
Verse 3 to 7
Shri Krishna outlines two distinct paths of spiritual practice in these verses. The path of knowledge (Sankhya Yog) is suited for the contemplative, while the path of selfless action (Karm Yog) is for the actively engaged. He stresses that no one can avoid action, as it is intrinsic to life, driven by nature's forces. Shri Krishna advises against superficially renouncing actions, advocating instead for performing duties without attachment. This approach aligns actions with moral duty, free from personal desires for outcomes, leading to true spiritual enlightenment.
Verse 8 to 16
Shri Krishna explains that doing our duties is crucial, especially for those who are not yet fully focused on spiritual growth. He tells us to think of our everyday tasks as offerings to God, or sacrifices. This means when we work selflessly, it helps keep everything in order.
Shri Krishna mentions in verse 12 that people who work this way are taken care of by nature itself. They get what they need to live because they help maintain the natural balance. By doing our duties without looking for personal gains, we not only keep our world in harmony but also move closer to spiritual freedom, or moksha.
Verses 17 to 19
Shri Krishna conveys that an enlightened soul is not bound by the obligation to carry out the duties prescribed in the Vedas. Such individuals are already immersed in God and operate beyond the realm of gains and losses. They work devoid of attachment to the outcomes of their actions.
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Conclusively, Shri Krishna asserts that actions performed without attachment to results are of the highest spiritual significance. Such actions, especially when undertaken as sacrifices dedicated to God, surpass those executed with selfish desires. By performing duties in the spirit of service and without concern for personal gain, one advances toward ultimate liberation.
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Verses 20 to 26
Shri Krishna uses King Janak as an example to show that engaging in selfless work, or Karma Yoga, can lead to perfection. He explains that enlightened individuals should act selflessly not only for their own benefit but also to inspire others who are less knowledgeable. Such actions can motivate others to engage in selfless endeavours for their betterment. He also points out that even he and Arjuna are practicing Karma Yoga on Earth, setting an inspiring example for humanity. He emphasizes that enlightened people should guide those who are less aware, encouraging them to work, even if initially driven by personal gain. This, he argues, is better than having them give up on work entirely.
Shri Krishna concludes that the actions of enlightened individuals should serve as a beacon, encouraging others to gradually dedicate all their actions to God, moving away from personal desires and towards divine devotion.
Verse 27 to 29
People who lack deeper understanding often think they are the sole doers of actions, but in reality, it is their nature that drives these actions. This nature is divided into three types:
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Sattva Guna: Mode of Goodness, which includes qualities like truthfulness and compassion.
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Rajas Guna: Mode of Passion, characterized by attachment and desires.
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Tamas Guna: Mode of Ignorance, evident in untruthfulness and laziness.
Wise individuals realize that their actions are influenced by the complex interaction between their nature, their senses (like sight and hearing), and the objects around them (like things they see or hear).
Knowledgeable people should not disturb those who are unaware of these influences. Instead of disrupting their beliefs, the enlightened should let the uninformed continue their activities as they are.
Verse 30 to 32
Carry out all duties with devotion to Shri Krishna, which liberates the wise from Karma's binds. Those who doubt His teachings struggle with right and wrong, leading to ruin. Such doubts also block their path to moksha, keeping them in the cycle of rebirth.
Verse 33 to 35
Shri Krishna says our natural tendencies influence our actions, and he warns about the pull of our senses towards likes and dislikes. He advises us to control these senses to stay true to our duties. He emphasizes the importance of doing our own work, even if not perfect, over doing someone else's work perfectly. By managing our senses, we can focus on our true responsibilities, leading to genuine fulfilment and spiritual growth.
Verse 36
Arjun’s question 4: Arjun, confused, asks Shri Krishna why people are compelled to commit wrong actions even when they understand that it's sinful.
Shri Krishna’s Answer 4: Shri Krishna explains that human beings engage in sinful actions due to their desires and the intention to satisfy them. He advises the control of the five senses, which propel these desires, to ultimately lead a life free from sins.
Verse 37 to 43
Shri Krishna tells Arjuna that seeking temporary sensory pleasures often leads to sinful actions. He references the 'cycle of attachment to negative karma' from Chapter 2 for deeper insight. Liberation from karma’s bondage, achieving moksha, requires mastering desires and steering clear of this negative cycle. Control of desires begins with mastery over the senses, managed by the mind, which is directed by the intellect. The intellect, influenced by the soul, helps discern right from wrong, aiding in sense control to avoid actions that block liberation.
CONCLUSION: Shri Krishna explained to Arjuna the importance of aligning actions with one's innate nature and not suppressing natural inclinations. He highlighted how desire can lead us to commit knowingly sinful acts. These insights guide us towards the right course of action and the mindset needed to follow it, ultimately aiding our journey towards attaining God.
Moving forward, in the next chapter, Shri Krishna will delve deeper into the subject of devotion and further elaborate on Karm Yog.