Chapter 2 – Sankhya Yoga
Verse 47
Sanskrit Verse
karmaṇy-evādhikāras te mā phaleṣhu kadāchana
mā karma-phala-hetur bhūr mā te saṅgo ’stvakarmaṇi
Simple Meaning
O Arjuna!
You have the right to perform your duties, but not to the results of your actions. Do not consider yourself the cause of the results, and do not become attached to inaction.
Detailed Explanation
Focus on Action, Not Results
Krishna teaches that a person should concentrate on performing their duties sincerely. The outcome of actions is not fully in one’s control, as it depends on many factors beyond individual effort.
By focusing on action rather than results, the mind remains calm and steady.
Letting Go of Attachment to Results
People often act with expectations of success, reward, or recognition.
Krishna advises letting go of this attachment.
When actions are performed without expecting results, they become pure and free from stress and disappointment.
Not the Doer of Results
“Do not be the cause of the fruits of action” means one should not assume complete ownership of outcomes.
This removes ego and helps one understand that results are influenced by a larger order of life.
Avoiding Inaction
Krishna clearly states that detachment from results does not mean avoiding action.
One should not become lazy or indifferent.
Avoiding responsibilities is not the path to peace or growth.
Key Points
Right to action only – Focus on your duties, not on outcomes.
Detach from results – Let go of expectations and desires.
Ego-free action – Do not think you alone control the results.
Avoid inaction – Do not escape from responsibilities.
Profound Spiritual Meaning
This verse presents the essence of Karma Yoga.
Krishna teaches that true freedom comes when a person acts without attachment and ego.
Such actions do not bind the soul and lead to inner peace and spiritual growth.
The deeper message is:
Act with dedication, but remain detached—this is the path to true liberation.
Word-by-Word Meaning
Karmaṇi eva – In action alone
Adhikāraḥ te – You have the right
Mā phaleṣu kadācana – Never in the fruits
Mā karma-phala-hetuḥ bhūḥ – Do not be the cause of the results
Mā te saṅgaḥ astu akarmaṇi – Do not be attached to inaction
Message of the Shloka
Krishna teaches that one should perform their duties with sincerity and dedication, without attachment to results or fear of failure.
By staying focused on action and free from ego and expectations, a person attains inner peace, balance, and spiritual growth.
