Bhagavad Gita Verse 3.10

 

Bhagavad Gita Verse 3.10: The Divine Cycle of Sacrifice

Sanskrit Verse:

सहयज्ञाः प्रजाः सृष्ट्वा पुरोवाच प्रजापतिः।
अनेन प्रसविष्यध्वमेष वोऽस्त्विष्टकामधुक्॥ ३.१०॥

Transliteration:

Saha-yajñāḥ prajāḥ sṛṣṭvā purovāca prajāpatiḥ
Anena prasaviṣyadhvam eṣa vo ‘stv iṣṭa-kāma-dhuk

Translation:

"In the beginning, the Creator (Prajapati) created mankind together with sacrifice (yajña) and said, ‘By this shall you prosper; let this be the milker of your desired needs.’"

"प्रारंभ में, सृष्टिकर्ता (प्रजापति) ने मानव जाति को बलिदान (यज्ञ) के साथ बनाया और कहा, 'इससे तुम्हारी समृद्धि होगी; यह तुम्हारी इच्छित आवश्यकताओं का दूध देने वाला होगा।'"

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Understanding Bhagavad Gita 3.10

This verse from the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of sacrifice (yajña) as a fundamental principle of life. Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna that when the Creator (Prajapati) brought forth humanity, He also introduced the concept of yajña as a means for their prosperity and fulfillment of desires.

1. Yajña: The Cosmic Law of Selfless Action

The term yajña in this verse does not merely refer to ritualistic fire sacrifices but encompasses the broader idea of selfless actions dedicated to a higher purpose. It symbolizes a system of mutual cooperation between humans, nature, and the divine.

• The Vedic concept of yajña suggests that every being must contribute to the world in a spirit of duty and gratitude.
• The philosophical essence of yajña lies in the idea of selfless service and surrender to the divine will.
• When people perform their duties with dedication and without selfish motives, they align with the natural order and experience harmony.

2. The Principle of Mutual Prosperity

Lord Krishna highlights that yajña is not just a duty but a path to growth and fulfillment. When individuals perform their responsibilities with sincerity and contribute to society, they create an ecosystem where all beings thrive.

• Personal Level: A person who works with selfless dedication finds inner peace and contentment.
• Societal Level: A society that values cooperation and mutual support prospers.
• Environmental Level: The balance between nature and human activities is maintained when people give back rather than exploit resources selfishly.

3. Yajña as the Source of Fulfillment

The phrase iṣṭa-kāma-dhuk in the verse refers to the idea that yajña is the giver of all that one desires. This aligns with the universal law of cause and effect: when we give and contribute, we receive in return.

Krishna's message resonates with the law of karma—our actions shape our destiny. A life dedicated to selfless duty leads to lasting happiness, while selfish pursuits ultimately cause disharmony.

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Applying Bhagavad Gita 3.10 in Daily Life

1. Perform Duties with Dedication: Approach work and responsibilities as an offering to the greater good rather than just personal gain.
2. Practice Selfless Service: Engage in activities that benefit others, such as charity, community service, or mentorship.
3. Respect and Preserve Nature: Adopt sustainable practices, understanding that nature nurtures us when we respect it.
4. Cultivate a Spirit of Gratitude: Recognize that everything we receive is part of a larger cycle, and giving back ensures continued prosperity.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 3.10 presents a profound vision of life rooted in the principle of yajña—selfless action and sacrifice. Krishna teaches that when we align our actions with a spirit of offering, we contribute to the greater good and receive fulfillment in return. By living in harmony with this divine order, individuals and societies can experience true prosperity, peace, and happiness.

Thus, this verse serves as a timeless reminder that selfless work is not only a duty but a pathway to both material success and spiritual liberation.