In Chapter 3, Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains the principles of Karma Yoga to Arjuna.
Arjuna inquired, “Krishna, if You believe that attaining transcendental knowledge surpasses worldly endeavors, why then do You urge me to partake in this dreadful warfare?”
Krishna replied, “I have previously explained a dual path of spiritual practice: one of self-realization for the introspective, and one of selfless action for all others. Mere renunciation of action does not lead to liberation from the bondage of karma. Nor does one achieve perfection solely by abandoning work, for inertia is impossible; the very fabric of nature compels all beings to engage in action.”
People often fall into the misconception that dedicating one’s life to studying scriptures, deep contemplation, and seeking transcendental knowledge might yield greater spiritual advancement than fulfilling worldly obligations. However, a soul realized in the divine does not perceive itself as the sole actor, but rather as a vessel in the hands of the Divine for His purpose. Both the pursuit of metaphysical understanding and selfless service serve as pathways to realizing the Supreme Being. These paths, far from being distinct, actually complement each other. Arjuna, perform your duty to the best of your abilities as an offering to the Divine.”
Lord Krishna declared, “Though there is nothing left for Me to attain, I still engage in action. For if I were to cease all activity, O Arjuna, people would follow My example and chaos would ensue. The very fabric of existence relies on My work; without it, destruction would be inevitable. Therefore, relinquish ego, sorrow, and the relentless pursuit of desires, dedicating all actions to the Divine with a spiritual mindset. The barriers of preference and aversion obstruct the path to self-realization.”
Arjuna questioned, “Krishna, what drives one to sin, seemingly compelled against their will?”
Lord Krishna explained, “Lust, arising from desire, transforms into anger when unmet. It is insatiable and a formidable adversary. Recognize it as such. The senses, mind, and intellect serve as its dwelling, leading one astray by obscuring self-awareness. Thus, Arjuna, master the senses initially to rein in this demon of material desire, which undermines self-awareness and enlightenment.”
“The senses surpass the body, the mind surpasses the senses, the intellect surpasses the mind, transcendental knowledge surpasses the intellect, and the Self surpasses transcendental knowledge. Recognizing the Self as superior to the intellect, and harnessing the mind with an intellect purified through spiritual discipline, one must conquer the formidable adversary, lust, Arjuna.”