Bhagavad Gita 3.18

 

Bhagavad Gita: Understanding Verse 3.18

Sanskrit Verse

नैव तस्य कृतेनार्थो नाकृतेनेह कश्चन।
न चास्य सर्वभूतेषु कश्िचदर्थव्यपाश्रयः॥

Transliteration

Naiva tasya kṛtenārtho nākṛteneha kaścana,
Na chāsya sarvabhūteṣu kaścidarthavyapāśrayaḥ.

Meaning in English

For a person who has attained self-realization, there is no purpose in performing action, nor is there any loss in not performing action. Such a realized being does not depend on anyone or anything in this world for any purpose.

" आत्म-साक्षात्कार प्राप्त व्यक्ति के लिए कर्म करने में कोई प्रयोजन नहीं रहता, न ही कर्म न करने में कोई हानि होती है। ऐसा आत्म-साक्षात्कार प्राप्त व्यक्ति किसी भी प्रयोजन के लिए इस संसार में किसी पर या वस्तु पर निर्भर नहीं रहता। "

Explanation

This verse from Chapter 3 (Karma Yoga) of the Bhagavad Gita highlights the state of an enlightened person. Krishna emphasizes that one who has attained true wisdom and self-realization is beyond worldly duties and does not seek rewards from action or inaction.

Key Interpretations:

1. Freedom from Attachment to Action: A self-realized soul performs actions selflessly, without any personal gain or loss. Such a being acts out of duty, not out of desire.
2. Independence from External Validation: Unlike ordinary individuals who seek recognition, wealth, or success, a wise person is content within themselves and does not rely on worldly possessions or achievements.
3. Beyond Obligation: While worldly duties bind common people, a liberated person is beyond such obligations. However, they may still act in the world for the benefit of others.

Application in Daily Life

• This verse encourages us to perform our duties without attachment to results.
• It teaches us to find inner contentment rather than depending on external circumstances.
• It inspires us to act selflessly, contributing to society without seeking rewards.

Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 3.18 beautifully conveys the essence of detachment and self-realization. It reminds us that true fulfillment comes from inner wisdom, not from external achievements. By adopting this mindset, one can lead a life of peace, purpose, and spiritual freedom.