Bhagavad Gita 4.48

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4, Verse 48: Understanding Equanimity in Action

Sanskrit Verse (Bhagavad Gita 4.48)

योगयुक्तो विसुद्धात्मा विजितात्मा जितेन्द्रियः।
सर्वभूतात्मभूतात्मा कुर्वन्नपि न लिप्यते॥

Transliteration

yoga-yukto viśuddhātmā vijitātmā jitendriyaḥ
sarva-bhūtātma-bhūtātmā kurvann api na lipyate

Word-by-Word Meaning

• yoga-yuktaḥ – United with yoga (devotion, discipline, or union with the divine)
• viśuddha-ātmā – One whose soul is purified
• vijita-ātmā – One who has conquered his own self
• jita-indriyaḥ – One who has mastered his senses
• sarva-bhūta-ātma-bhūta-ātmā – One who sees the Supreme Self in all beings and all beings in the Self
• kurvan api – Even while performing actions
• na lipyate – Is not tainted or bound by them

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Explanation of Bhagavad Gita 4.48

This verse from the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the ideal qualities of a truly enlightened being—one who is united with yoga, purified in soul, self-controlled, and master of the senses. Such a person, even while performing actions, remains unattached and is not affected by karma.

1. The State of a Yogi

A person who is yoga-yukta (engaged in disciplined practice of yoga) develops inner purity (viśuddhātmā), self-control (vijitātmā), and mastery over the senses (jitendriyaḥ). These qualities make one free from attachment and the results of actions.

2. Seeing the Self in All

The phrase sarva-bhūtātma-bhūtātmā means that a realized being sees the divine presence in all creatures and recognizes the interconnectedness of all existence. This vision leads to a sense of oneness and universal love.

3. Acting Without Attachment

Though such a person continues to perform their duties, they remain unaffected (na lipyate). This echoes the principle of karma yoga—acting without selfish motives. Actions performed in this state do not create bondage but instead lead to liberation.

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Practical Lessons from Bhagavad Gita 4.48

1. Cultivating Inner Purity

By practicing yoga and self-discipline, we can purify our minds and hearts, leading to clarity and wisdom.

2. Mastery Over Desires

True freedom comes when we control our senses and mind rather than being controlled by them.

3. Seeing Unity in Diversity

Recognizing the divine presence in all beings fosters compassion, reducing ego and selfishness.

4. Acting with Detachment

When we work selflessly, without attachment to the outcomes, we free ourselves from stress and anxiety.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 4.48 teaches the essence of karma yoga—acting with awareness, detachment, and self-mastery. By living in this state, one achieves true peace and liberation while still engaging in worldly responsibilities.