4. Philosophy of Action

Jñāna Karm Sanyās Yog

BG 4.37

Just as fire consumes the fuel, all actions are reduced to ashes in the fire of wisdom.

यथैधांसि समिद्धोऽग्निर्भस्मसात्कुरुतेऽर्जुन
ज्ञानाग्निः सर्वकर्माणि भस्मसात्कुरुते तथा

  • yathaidhānsi — like firewood

    • yathā — like, as

    • edhānsi — firewood

  • samiddho — blazing
    samiddhaḥ

  • ’gnir — fire

  • bhasma-sāt — to ashes

    • bhasma

    • sāt

  • kurute — it turns

  • ’rjuna — Arjuna

  • jñānāgniḥ — the fire of knowledge

    • jñāna — knowledge

    • agniḥ — fire

  • sarva-karmāṇi — all reactions from activities

    • sarva — all

    • karmāṇi — activities, prescribed duties

  • bhasma-sāt — to ashes

    • bhasma

    • sāt

  • kurute — it turns

  • tathā — similarly

...4.31

These various forms of sacrifice, dependent on action, are the path to your liberation.

[32]

The sacrifice of wisdom is superior to any material sacrifice, for all actions culminate in knowledge.

[33]

You shall learn this by placing yourself at the master's feet, questioning them, and serving them. The wise who have realized the truth will teach you wisdom.

[34]

Know that you shall never again be deluded like this, and by the power of that wisdom, you will see all people as if they were your own self.

[35]

Even if you are the most sinful of sinners, you can cross the ocean of sin on the boat of knowledge alone.

[36]

Just as fire consumes the fuel, all actions are reduced to ashes in the fire of wisdom.

[37]

There is nothing in the world so purifying as knowledge. Those who have perfected the science of action eventually find it within themselves.

[38]

One who is faithful and can control their senses acquires knowledge. Upon attaining this wisdom, they will soon attain the ultimate peace.

[39]

4.40...

Similar verses

Chapter 4, Verse 37