BG 3.4
One cannot be free from action by simply abstaining from any actions, nor can one achieve perfection by renunciation alone.
न च संन्यसनादेव सिद्धिं समधिगच्छति
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na — not
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karmaṇām — of actions
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anārambhān — by abstaining from
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naiṣhkarmyaṁ — freedom from karmic reactions
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puruṣho — a personality
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’śhnute — attains
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na — not
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cha — and
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sannyasanād — by renunciation
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eva — only
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siddhiṁ — perfection
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samadhigachchhati — attains
Krishna replied: In this world, there are two paths one might take - a path of knowledge for those inclined toward contemplation, and a path of Yoga for those inclined toward action. One cannot be free from action by simply abstaining from any actions, nor can one achieve perfection by renunciation alone. No one can remain even a moment without performing some action, for everyone is helpless to the compulsions of their inner nature. A person who restrains the organs of action, but continues indulging in memories of sense objects, is delusional and a hypocrite. A person who can control the senses with their mind, and always acts without attachment, is bound to excel. Perform your obligatory actions, for action is superior to inaction. For a person following inaction, even the sustenance of the body is impossible. This world is held in the bondage of actions that were not performed for the sake of sacrifice. Therefore, Arjuna, free yourself from attachment and perform work for this purpose alone.
Similar verses
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Having a body makes it is impossible to completely give up action. The truly renounced are those who relinquish the fruit of their actions.
- Verse 18.11
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One who mentally renounces all action enjoys happiness and self-control of the body, neither doing anything nor causing anything to be done.
- Verse 5.13
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One does not gain the fruit of renunciation by renouncing painful actions out of the fear of the body's suffering.
- Verse 18.8
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An action is pure when it is performed without attachment, free from desire or aversion, by one who does not seek the result of performing it.
- Verse 18.23
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One whose mind is entirely detached, who has conquered the self and is free from desire, attains through renunciation the supreme perfection and freedom from action.
- Verse 18.49