
4
CHAPTER
VERSE
18
कर्मण्यकर्म य: पश्येदकर्मणि च कर्म य: |
स बुद्धिमान्मनुष्येषु स युक्त: कृत्स्नकर्मकृत् || 4.18 ||
Karmaṇyakarma yaḥ paśyedakarmaṇi ca karma yaḥ |
Sa buddhimānmanuṣyeṣu sa yuktaḥ kṛtsnakarmakṛt ||
One who sees inaction in action, and action in inaction, such a person is wise among humans, and is considered a yogi, always engaged in perfect action.
Lesson:
This verse from the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the concept of detached action or selfless action (karma yoga). It suggests that a wise person perceives action differently from an ordinary individual. The verse speaks about the profound understanding of action and inaction. It doesn't mean that one should stop performing actions, but rather it suggests performing actions without attachment to the results.
Understanding this verse requires delving into the deeper meaning of action and inaction. It implies that a person who performs their duties without being attached to the outcomes is truly wise. This wisdom comes from realizing that while they are actively engaged in their tasks, they are not motivated by personal desires or ego. Instead, they see their actions as part of a larger cosmic play, where they are merely instruments of a higher power.
In essence, this verse teaches the importance of performing one's duties diligently while maintaining a state of mental detachment from the results. It encourages individuals to adopt a mindset where they focus on the present moment and the action itself, rather than worrying about the future or dwelling on past accomplishments. This attitude fosters a sense of inner peace and contentment, leading to spiritual growth and liberation from the cycle of karma.