Bhagavad Gita 3.35

 

The Wisdom of Bhagavad Gita: Understanding Verse 3.35

Sanskrit Verse:

श्रेयान् स्वधर्मो विगुणः परधर्मात् स्वनुष्ठितात्।
स्वधर्मे निधनं श्रेयः परधर्मो भयावहः॥

Transliteration:

śhreyān swa-dharmo viguṇaḥ para-dharmāt svanuṣhṭhitāt |
swa-dharme nidhanaṁ śhreyaḥ para-dharmo bhayāvahaḥ ||

Meaning:

"It is better to perform one's own duty (dharma), even if imperfectly, than to perform another's duty perfectly. It is better to die following one's own dharma; performing another's duty is fraught with danger."

" किसी दूसरे के कर्तव्य को पूर्णतः निभाने की अपेक्षा, चाहे अपूर्ण रूप से ही क्यों न हो, अपना कर्तव्य (धर्म) निभाना बेहतर है। अपने धर्म का पालन करते हुए मरना बेहतर है; दूसरे का कर्तव्य निभाना खतरे से भरा है। "

Interpretation and Significance:

1. The Importance of Swadharma (One’s Own Duty)

This verse emphasizes the necessity of following one's own natural duty (Swadharma), rather than attempting to perform someone else’s duty, even if done perfectly. In the context of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna that his duty as a Kshatriya (warrior) is to fight for righteousness (Dharma). Even if he finds it challenging, it is still his divine responsibility.

2. Why is Swadharma Superior?

Every individual is born with unique abilities, tendencies, and responsibilities shaped by their nature (Svabhava). The Gita teaches that living in alignment with one’s nature leads to inner peace and fulfillment. When people abandon their natural roles and imitate others, it creates conflict, dissatisfaction, and fear.

3. Fear and Danger in Paradharma (Another’s Duty)

Performing someone else's duty may seem appealing, but it often leads to stress, inefficiency, and dissatisfaction. This verse warns that ignoring one's true calling can result in fear and failure. A doctor trying to be a warrior, or a teacher trying to be a businessman, might struggle and fail despite their best efforts.

4. Application in Modern Life

This verse is deeply relevant in today’s world, where people often chase careers, lifestyles, or social expectations that do not align with their true nature. It reminds us to introspect and follow our true calling, rather than being influenced by societal pressures or comparisons.

5. Spiritual Perspective

From a spiritual angle, this verse encourages individuals to focus on their own spiritual journey rather than comparing themselves with others. Every soul has its own path, and trying to imitate someone else's spiritual progress may not yield the same results. True growth comes from sincere effort in one's own path.

Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 3.35 teaches a profound lesson about self-discovery, purpose, and fearlessness in following one’s path. It encourages us to embrace our unique duties, even if they seem difficult, and warns against abandoning our path out of fear or comparison. Living authentically, even with challenges, is far better than following a path that does not belong to us.

Would you like me to explore this verse from another perspective or elaborate further.