BG 3.22
There is nothing in the universe that I am compelled to do, nor is there anything yet to be attained, yet I remain persistently active.
नानवाप्तमवाप्तव्यं वर्त एव च कर्मणि
-
na — not
-
me — mine
-
pārthāsti — is Arjuna
-
pārtha — Arjun
-
asti — is
-
-
kartavyaṁ — duty
-
triṣhu — in the three
-
lokeṣhu — worlds
-
kiñchana — any
-
nānavāptam — not to be attained
-
na — not
-
anavāptam — to be attained
-
-
avāptavyaṁ — to be gained
-
varta — engaged
-
eva — yet
-
cha — also
-
karmaṇi — in prescribed duties
There is nothing in the universe that I am compelled to do, nor is there anything yet to be attained, yet I remain persistently active. If I did not diligently engage in action, people would be inclined to do the same. If I were to refrain from action entirely, mankind would be ruined. I would lead the world to chaos and destruction. Just as the ignorant act out of fondness for action, so too should the wise act without attachment, fixing their eyes upon the welfare of the world. Those who are wise do not disturb the understanding of those attached to their actions due to ignorance. They perform work with devotion, and inspire others to do the same.
Similar verses
-
No one can remain even a moment without performing some action, for everyone is helpless to the compulsions of their inner nature.
- Verse 3.5
-
This work does not bind me - I am ever detached from these material activities, situated in equanimity.
- Verse 9.9
-
Having surrendered all claim to the fruit of actions, ever contented with the inner self, one ceases to act even if they may be engaged in action.
- Verse 4.20
-
Perform your obligatory actions, for action is superior to inaction. For a person following inaction, even the sustenance of the body is impossible.
- Verse 3.8
-
This entire universe is pervaded by me in unmanifest form. All living beings are within me, yet I am not confined within them.
- Verse 9.4