Hinduism

Chapter3— The Yoga of Action

◆ About this chapter

Chapter 3 of the Bhagavad Gita, titled Karma Yoga or the Yoga of Action, serves as a pivotal transition from the metaphysical discourse of Chapter 2 to the practical application of duty in social life. Here, the divine speaker addresses the protagonist's hesitation to fight, arguing that action performed without attachment to results is the highest path to spiritual realization. This section establishes the foundational Hindu ethic that one must fulfill their prescribed social responsibilities to maintain cosmic order, thereby balancing the earlier teachings on renunciation with an active engagement in the world.

Translation:

About this translation

King James Version (1611)

1611 · Public domain

The most influential English translation ever made. Sometimes archaic, but the standard PD English text.

Translators commissioned by King James I of England, 1604–1611

Therefore, without attachment, constantly perform the work that ought to be done; for man, performing work without attachment, attains the Supreme. ³⁵Better one's own duty, though imperfect, than the duty of another well performed. Better is death in one's own duty; the duty of another is fraught with peril.

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— 3 —sacredatlas.org