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Bhagavad Gita 3.19
The traditional text
असक्तो ह्याचरन्कर्म परमाप्नोति पूरुषः॥
Roman reading aid
tasmād asaktaḥ satataṃ kāryaṃ karma samācara |
asakto hy ācaran karma param āpnoti pūruṣaḥ ||
Meaning in everyday language
Therefore keep performing the action that ought to be done, without attachment. By acting in this way, a person reaches the highest.
Understand the teaching
Chapter 3 develops karma yoga in response to Arjuna’s questions about knowledge and action. The words karyam karma point to action that calls to be done, not every impulse that happens to arise. Krishna places disciplined action within the path to the highest spiritual goal. Freedom from attachment changes the motive and manner of work.
For a learner, maintaining a shared space or completing a promised part of a project can be a small exercise in this attitude. The work needs attention even when it brings little applause. Deciding what is appropriate still requires thought about circumstances, obligations and the people affected. This application keeps responsibility and inner discipline together.
Words and phrases
- असक्तः (asaktaḥ)
- without attachment
- सततम् (satatam)
- consistently
- कार्यं कर्म (kāryaṃ karma)
- action that ought to be done
- समाचर (samācara)
- perform properly
- परम् आप्नोति (param āpnoti)
- reaches the highest
Pause and think
A necessary group task receives little praise. How could you approach it?
See an explained answer
I can clarify the task, do it carefully and ask for help where needed. Its usefulness can guide my effort even when praise is uncertain.