BG 4.12
Those who desire the fruit of their actions perform rituals and sacrifices to the gods, achieving quick success in the human realm.
क्षिप्रं हि मानुषे लोके सिद्धिर्भवति कर्मजा
Krishna is saying something similar to Jesus in Matthew 22:21: "render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's." The Gita repeatedly emphasizes that one is free to worship other deities or perform devotional service as one see's fit, but there should also be the understanding that there are clear patterns by which one is not worshipping the supreme God.
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kāṅkṣhantaḥ — desiring
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karmaṇāṁ — material activities
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siddhiṁ — success
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yajanta — worship
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iha — in this world
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devatāḥ — the celestial gods
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kṣhipraṁ — quickly
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hi — certainly
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mānuṣhe — in human society
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loke — within this world
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siddhir — rewarding
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bhavati — manifest
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karmajā — from material activities
One who understands the truth of my divine birth and actions is not born again. When they leave their body, they come to me. Freed from attachment, fear, and anger, they are completely absorbed in me and take my refuge. Many have attained me through the purification of austerity and wisdom. In whatever way one tries to worship me, I welcome them. Whichever path they take, it leads to me in the end. Those who desire the fruit of their actions perform rituals and sacrifices to the gods, achieving quick success in the human realm.
Similar verses
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Nourish the gods with sacrifice, and they will support you in return. In supporting each other, you shall attain the highest prosperity.
- Verse 3.11
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But the fruit gained by such people of limited insight is perishable. The worshippers of the celestial gods will go to the gods, while my devotees come to me.
- Verse 7.23
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Those pious souls who study the Vedas, drink the Soma juice, worship me with sacrifice and pray for passage to heaven, will enjoy the celestial pleasures of gods.
- Verse 9.20
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Some sages perform sacrifice to the gods alone, while others offer themselves as sacrifice on the eternal altar.
- Verse 4.25
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Those whose wisdom has been carried away by material desires, worship other Gods and practice whatever rites they prefer.
- Verse 7.20