Bhagavad Gita 5.11

 

Bhagavad Gita 5.11: The Path of Selfless Action

Sanskrit Verse:

कायेन मनसा बुद्ध्या केवलैरिन्द्रियैरपि।
योगिनः कर्म कुर्वन्ति सङ्गं त्यक्त्वात्मशुद्धये॥

Transliteration:

Kāyena manasā buddhyā kevalair indriyair api,
Yoginaḥ karma kurvanti saṅgaṁ tyaktvātma-śuddhaye.

Translation:

"Yogis perform actions with their body, mind, intellect, and senses, giving up attachment, solely for the purpose of self-purification."

" योगी लोग आसक्ति त्यागकर केवल आत्म-शुद्धि के उद्देश्य से अपने शरीर, मन, बुद्धि और इन्द्रियों से कर्म करते हैं। "

---

Understanding the Verse

This verse from Chapter 5 of the Bhagavad Gita highlights the essence of Karma Yoga—the path of selfless action. It teaches that true yogis engage in their duties without attachment, using their body, mind, and senses as instruments for purification and spiritual growth.

Key Concepts in the Verse:

1. Action Without Attachment:

   • Krishna emphasizes that actions should be performed without desire for personal gain.

   • Detachment from results leads to inner peace and spiritual elevation.

2. Use of Body, Mind, and Intellect:

   • Every action, whether physical (kāyena), mental (manasā), or intellectual (buddhyā), should align with righteousness.

   • This holistic approach ensures that one remains balanced and devoted to duty.

3. Purification of the Self (Ātma-śuddhi):

   • The ultimate goal of selfless action is inner purification.

   • By giving up ego and attachment, one progresses toward spiritual liberation (moksha).

---

Practical Application of This Verse

1. Work as Worship:

   • Approach daily tasks as an offering to the divine, rather than for personal gain.

2. Detachment from Results:

   • Focus on effort rather than worrying about success or failure.

   • This mindset reduces stress and promotes mental clarity.

3. Balanced Living:

• Engage in activities that nourish both material and spiritual well-being.

• Maintain harmony between work, family, and personal growth.

---

Conclusion

Verse 5.11 of the Bhagavad Gita serves as a powerful reminder that selfless action, performed with sincerity and detachment, leads to purification and spiritual progress. By following this principle, one can transform every action into a step toward inner peace and enlightenment.