Chinmaya commentary
Chapter 3,
Karma Yoga or the "Yoga of Action," addresses Arjuna's confusion about
Krishna's assertion that knowledge is superior to action
and his command for Arjuna to engage in battle.
(the apparent contradiction )
Krishna clarifies that there are two paths to enlightenment:
the path of knowledge (Jnana Yoga) for contemplatives and
the path of action (Karma Yoga) for those inclined toward activity.
He emphasizes that no one can remain without action, as all beings are compelled by the qualities of nature (gunas) to act.
Inaction is not a viable path to liberation, and mere physical renunciation does not lead to perfection.
Krishna teaches that actions performed as a sacrifice (yajna) to the Supreme Lord, without attachment to results, lead to liberation.
He explains that the cycle of creation involves sacrifice:
sacrifice leads to rain,
rain produces food
food sustains life;
thus, all actions are part of a divine order.
Those who enjoy the fruits of this cycle without offering anything in return are considered thieves,
while those who(only) eat food offered in sacrifice are freed from sin.
Krishna stresses that even He, who has no personal need or desire, performs actions to set an example and prevent societal chaos, as
the wise should act without attachment for the welfare of the world.
The chapter highlights the importance of performing one's svadharma, or inherent duty
, as it is better to perform one's own duty imperfectly than
to perfectly perform another's duty, which is fraught with fear.
Krishna identifies desire and anger, both arising from the quality of passion (rajas), as the primary enemies that delude the intellect and obscure true knowledge.
He advises Arjuna to control the senses, mind, and intellect to overcome this inner enemy, ultimately slaying desire through self-realization.
The wise, like King Janaka, perform their duties without attachment, serving as role models for others, while those who criticize Krishna's teachings without practicing them are doomed to destruction.