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5

CHAPTER 

VERSE

14

न कर्तृत्वं न कर्माणि लोकस्य सृजति प्रभु: |
न कर्मफलसंयोगं स्वभावस्तु प्रवर्तते || 5.14 ||

Na kartṛitvaṁ na karmāṇi lokasya sṛjati prabhuḥ
Na karma-phala-sanyogaṁ swabhāvas tu pravartate ||

The Lord neither creates the doer of actions nor the actions themselves, nor does He create the connection between actions and their fruits. Rather, the inherent nature (Swabhava) is responsible for these.

Lesson:

This verse highlights the principle of karma as governed by the law of cause and effect, emphasizing individual responsibility and free will. According to Hindu philosophy, every action (karma) produces a corresponding result (phala), which influences future experiences and determines the trajectory of one's life. However, the Lord is not directly involved in this process; rather, it is driven by the inherent nature or disposition (swabhava) of individuals.

Lord Krishna explains the concept of karma, emphasizing that the Supreme Being, the Lord, does not create the doer of actions (kartṛitvaṁ), the actions themselves (karmāṇi), nor the connection between actions and their results (karma-phala-sanyogaṁ). Instead, He attributes these to the inherent nature (swabhava) of individuals. Swabhava encompasses a person's innate tendencies, inclinations, and past experiences accumulated over lifetimes. It influences their thoughts, desires, and actions, shaping their character and determining the course of their life. Therefore, individuals are responsible for their actions and their consequences, as they arise from their own nature.

By emphasizing the role of swabhava in the manifestation of actions and their outcomes, Lord Krishna underscores the importance of self-awareness and self-understanding in the practice of karma. Understanding one's inherent nature enables individuals to align their actions with their higher purpose and spiritual evolution. It empowers them to make conscious choices and take responsibility for their lives, leading to personal growth and fulfilment.

Moreover, this verse encourages individuals to perform their duties diligently without attachment to the results, recognizing that the fruits of actions are determined by factors beyond their control. By surrendering the fruits of their actions to the Divine and acting selflessly in accordance with their dharma (duty), individuals can attain inner peace and spiritual liberation.

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