Introduction:
We’re usually taught that phrase in some form or another, from a very young age. But is that all?
As per Bhagavad Gita, however, the concept of karma is far more profound, spiritual and life altering. Let’s hear it in plain English, in the way that Lord Krishna spoke to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kuruksetra.
What is Karma in the Gita?
Karma simply means “action.”
Lord Krishna explains in the Gita that whatever we do, think, speak or work upon is karma. But it’s the motive in the act, and the attachment to the results that truly
Shlokas 2.47
karmanya vadhikaraste, ma phaleshu
kadachana…”
Translation: You have the right to perform your actions, but not to the fruits of your actions.
This means: Do your duty, but don’t worry about the outcome
Which is to say: Do your duty, but don’t worry about the result.
The Three Types of Karma
• Sanchita Karma – Aggregated karmas of previous lifetimes.
• Prarabdha Karma – The measure of previous karma that manifests our current life.
• Kriyamana Karma – The things we learn doing karmas, which determine our future.
In the Gita, Krishna is focused more on teaching Arjuna about Kriyamana Karma — karma done in the moment, now, so to speak, with mindfulness and devotion.
Karma Yoga – The Yoga of Action
In Chapter 3, Lord Krishna presents Karma Yoga, the way of selfless action.
Shloka 3.19
“Tasmad asaktha satatam karyam karma
samachara”
Translation: Therefore always perform your duty without attachment leads to the supreme.
Selfless Action = Freedom from Bondage.
When we act without selfish desires, ego, or greed, we remain spiritually free even while working in the world.
How To Practice Karma Yoga In Daily Life?
Carry out your responsibilities in good faith and without desire for reward.
Take all of your things, the many tasks and daily chores that spend your days, and offer them to God – think of what you do as service.
Don’t be lazy or inert – inaction is also karma.
Take results as the will of God – success or failure, both accept with equanimity.
Why Karma Yoga is Important in Today’s World?
We can do with guidance from the Gita's teaching on Karma In a jet-setting, high-tension world of sheer bread-and-butter competition and stress and tension, such, the Gita teaching on Karma brings relief to us:
• Work without stress
• Detach from outcomes
• Keep things in balance whether up or down
• Keep your mind calm and focused
Final Thought:
The Gita teaches that karma is not just what we do, but how we do it.
Doing our duties with love, without ego, and with full sincerity—that is true karma.
You don’t have to renounce the world. You just need to change your attitude towards work.
“Perform every action as an offering to God and your life will become spiritual path”
