BG 3.8
Perform your obligatory actions, for action is superior to inaction. For a person following inaction, even the sustenance of the body is impossible.
शरीरयात्रापि च ते न प्रसिद्ध्येदकर्मणः
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niyataṁ — constantly
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kuru — perform
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karma — action
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tvaṁ — you
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karma — action
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jyāyo — superior
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hyakarmaṇaḥ — than inaction
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hi — certainly
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akarmaṇaḥ — than inaction
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śharīra-yātrāpi — bodily maintenance
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śharīra — of the body
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yātrāpi — maintenance
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cha — and
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te — your
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na prasiddhyed — would not be possible
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akarmaṇaḥ — inaction
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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What is action, and what is inaction? Even the wise are perplexed by this. Therefore, I will tell you of the philosophy of action, by which you can achieve liberation.
- Verse 4.16
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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
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If I did not diligently engage in action, people would be inclined to do the same.
- Verse 3.23
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Performing all actions for my sake, such a person attains the eternal, imperishable abode.
- Verse 18.56