Bhagavad Gita 3.14

 

Bhagavad Gita: Understanding Verse 3.14

Sanskrit Verse 3.14

अन्नाद्भवन्ति भूतानि पर्जन्यादन्नसंभवः।
यज्ञाद्भवति पर्जन्यो यज्ञः कर्मसमुद्भवः।।

Transliteration

Annād bhavanti bhūtāni parjanyād anna-sambhavaḥ,
Yajñād bhavati parjanyo yajñaḥ karma-samudbhavaḥ.

Translation

All living beings are sustained by food; food is produced by rain. Rain is generated by the performance of yajña (sacrifice), and yajña arises from prescribed duties (karma).

" सभी जीव अन्न से जीवित रहते हैं; अन्न वर्षा से उत्पन्न होता है। वर्षा यज्ञ से उत्पन्न होती है, और यज्ञ कर्म से उत्पन्न होता है। "

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Explanation of Bhagavad Gita 3.14

This verse, from the Karma Yoga chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, explains the cycle of sustenance and cosmic harmony. It emphasizes the importance of duty, sacrifice, and the interconnectedness of nature.

1. The Cycle of Life and Duty

The verse presents a cyclical law of nature:

• All living beings depend on food.
• Food is produced by rain.
• Rain comes from yajña (sacrificial actions).
• Yajña originates from karma (righteous actions).

This beautifully illustrates the Vedic concept of balance between nature and human duty.

2. Yajña: The Principle of Sacrifice

Yajña, in this context, represents:

• Vedic rituals: Traditional fire sacrifices performed to invoke divine blessings.
• Selfless action: Any righteous act performed without selfish motives, contributing to society and the universe.

According to the Bhagavad Gita, selfless karma (duty without attachment) is the highest form of yajña.

3. Environmental and Social Responsibility

This verse subtly teaches the importance of:

• Sustainable living: Respecting nature and maintaining ecological balance.
• Selfless service: Performing one's duty for the welfare of all, not just personal gain.
• Karma Yoga: The path of action where duty is performed without attachment to results.

4. Spiritual and Practical Relevance

In today’s world, this verse encourages:

• Ethical and sustainable food production.
• Respect for nature and environmental conservation.
• Performing one’s duties with sincerity and devotion.

By aligning actions with dharma (righteousness), individuals contribute to a harmonious world, fulfilling both spiritual and worldly responsibilities.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 3.14 teaches the cycle of interdependence in the universe and emphasizes the role of selfless action (karma yoga). By performing duties with dedication and purity, one aligns with divine order, ensuring both personal and collective well-being.

Would you like a deeper analysis or connection to modern-day examples?