Chapter 3, Verse 19
Karma Yoga — Sanskrit shloka, transliteration, word meanings, English translation, and commentary.
Original Sanskrit verse
Transliteration
Word meanings
tasmāt—therefore; asaktaḥ—without attachment; satatam—constantly; kāryam—duty; karma—action; samāchara—perform; asaktaḥ—unattached; hi—certainly; ācharan—performing; karma—work; param—the Supreme; āpnoti—attains; pūruṣhaḥ—a person
English translation
Therefore, without attachment, always perform the actions that should be done; for by performing actions without attachment, one reaches the Supreme.
— Swami Sivananda
Listen to Shloka 3.19
Commentary
If you perform actions without attachment; for the sake of the Lord; you will attain to Selfrealisation through purity of heart. (Cf. II.64IV.19; 23XVIII.49).
Commentary by Swami Sivananda
Simple Meaning
Therefore, constantly perform your obligatory duty without attachment; for by performing action without attachment, man attains the Supreme.
Context & Background
In Chapter 3 (Karma Yoga), Krishna urges Arjuna to fulfill his duty as an exemplary leader.
Key Philosophical Teaching
Duty performed without self-centered attachment leads directly to spiritual liberation.
Practical Application
Fulfill your daily responsibilities at home and work as a sacred duty rather than asking "What's in it for me?"
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Nishkama Karma mean in BG 3.19?
Nishkama Karma means performing duty without selfish expectation or attachment to personal reward.
Related Verses
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