Bhagavad Gita 3.23

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 3, Verse 23: The Importance of Duty

Sanskrit Verse:

यदि ह्यहं न वर्तेयं जातु कर्मण्यतन्द्रितः।
मम वर्त्मानुवर्तन्ते मनुष्याः पार्थ सर्वशः॥

Transliteration:

Yadi hyahaṁ na varteyaṁ jātu karmaṇyatandritaḥ
Mama vartmānuvartante manuṣyāḥ Pārtha sarvaśaḥ

Translation:

"O Arjuna, if I ever cease to perform prescribed duties with great care, then all men would follow My path in every way."

हे अर्जुन ! यदि मैं कभी भी बड़ी सावधानी से नियत कर्म करना छोड़ दूँ, तो सभी मनुष्य सब प्रकार से मेरे मार्ग का अनुसरण करेंगे।

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Understanding the Verse

This verse is spoken by Lord Krishna to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita's third chapter, which discusses Karma Yoga, the path of selfless action. Here, Krishna explains the necessity of setting an example through action. Since Krishna is the Supreme Being, His actions influence the entire world. If He were to abandon duty, others would do the same, leading to chaos and disorder.

Key Teachings from this Verse

1. Leadership by Example
   Leaders, teachers, and influential figures must act responsibly because their actions influence society. If they neglect their duties, others will follow suit, leading to disorder.

2. The Role of God in the World
   Krishna, though beyond the need for duty, still engages in action to maintain cosmic balance and inspire humans to act responsibly. Similarly, even great personalities must stay engaged in their responsibilities for the welfare of the world.

3. The Importance of Karma (Action)
   This verse reinforces the message that everyone, even those who have attained wisdom, should continue performing their duties without attachment. Avoiding responsibilities can set a negative precedent for others.

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Application in Daily Life

• Work with Dedication: Just as Krishna engages in action despite being beyond worldly needs, we should perform our duties diligently without attachment to results.
• Be a Role Model: Parents, teachers, and leaders must act responsibly, as their actions influence others.
• Maintain Social Harmony: When everyone fulfills their role in society, there is balance and progress.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that duty and responsibility should not be neglected, especially by those who guide and influence others.