Bhagavad Gita: 4.16

 

Understanding Bhagavad Gita: Verse 4.16

Sanskrit Verse:

किं कर्म किमकर्मेति कवयोऽप्यत्र मोहिताः |
तत्ते कर्म प्रवक्ष्यामि यज्ज्ञात्वा मोक्ष्यसेऽशुभात् || १६ ||

Transliteration:

kiṁ karma kim akarmeti kavayo'pyatra mohitāḥ |
tatte karma pravakṣyāmi yaj jñātvā mokṣyase'śubhāt || 16 ||

English Translation:

Even the wise are bewildered about what action is and what inaction is. Therefore, I shall explain to you what action truly is; knowing this, you shall be freed from all inauspiciousness.

" कर्म क्या है और अकर्म क्या है, इस विषय में बुद्धिमान लोग भी भ्रमित हो जाते हैं। इसलिए मैं तुम्हें कर्म क्या है, यह समझाता हूँ; इसे जानकर तुम समस्त अशुभों से मुक्त हो जाओगे। "

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Explanation:

This verse is from Chapter 4 of the Bhagavad Gita, which discusses Jnana Karma Sannyasa Yoga (The Path of Knowledge and Renunciation of Action). In this verse, Lord Krishna highlights the complexity of understanding karma (action) and akarma (inaction).

Key Teachings from This Verse:

1. Confusion about Karma:
   Even great scholars and wise people are sometimes confused about what constitutes right action, wrong action, and inaction. Actions are not always straightforward, and their consequences are often misunderstood.

2. Importance of Understanding Karma Properly:
   Krishna assures Arjuna that He will explain the true nature of karma so that he can act wisely. By understanding karma properly, one can free themselves from ashubha (inauspicious results like suffering, ignorance, and bondage).

3. Spiritual Liberation through Knowledge:
   True knowledge of karma leads to liberation (moksha). By realizing what is the right kind of action, one can act selflessly without being bound by the results.

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Practical Application in Daily Life:

• Right Understanding of Work: Instead of being attached to results, one should focus on doing their duty with sincerity and devotion.
• Freedom from Confusion: Seeking wisdom through scriptures, meditation, and guidance from enlightened teachers helps one act in alignment with dharma (righteousness).
• Selfless Service: Actions performed without selfish desires lead to inner peace and spiritual progress.

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Conclusion:

Lord Krishna, through this verse, invites us to delve deeper into the nature of action and inaction. By understanding the true meaning of karma, we can live a life free from anxiety and suffering, ultimately leading to spiritual liberation.

Would you like further elaboration on karma or another related concept from the Bhagavad Gita?