BG 3.7
A person who can control the senses with their mind, and always acts without attachment, is bound to excel.
कर्मेन्द्रियैः कर्मयोगमसक्तः स विशिष्यते
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yas — who
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tvindriyāṇi — but the senses
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manasā — by the mind
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niyamyārabhate — control begins
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’rjuna — Arjuna
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karmendriyaiḥ — an organ of action
Karmendriya (कर्मेन्द्रिय) is an organ of action, distinct from jñānendriya (ज्ञानेन्द्रिय) which are organs of perception. -
karma-yogam — performance of actions
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karma — action
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yogam — divine union
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asaktaḥ — without attachment
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sa — they
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viśhiṣhyate — are superior
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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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.
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...that sage who has controlled the senses, mind, and intellect, and is free from desire, fear, and anger, attains eternal liberation.
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When one can control their mind and perceive the world with senses that are free from craving and aversion, they achieve divine serenity.
- Verse 2.64
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One who is faithful and can control their senses acquires knowledge. Upon attaining this wisdom, they will soon attain the ultimate peace.
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