4. Philosophy of Action

Jñāna Karm Sanyās Yog

BG 4.38

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

न हि ज्ञानेन सदृशं पवित्रमिह विद्यते
तत्स्वयं योगसंसिद्धः कालेनात्मनि विन्दति

  • na — not

  • hi — certainly

  • jñānena — with divine knowledge

  • sadṛiśhaṁ — like

  • pavitramiha — pure in this (world)

    • pavitram — pure

    • iha — in this (world)

  • vidyate — exists

  • tatsvayaṁ — that oneself

    • tat — that

    • svayam — oneself

  • yogasansiddhaḥ — one who has attained perfection through righteous action

    • yoga — practice of Yoga

    • sansiddhaḥ — one who has attained perfection

  • kālenātmani — eventually within the heart

    • kālena — in course of time

    • ātmani — within the heart

  • vindati — finds

...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...
Chapter 4, Verse 38