Chapter 12 Verse 16
Bhakti Yog
अनपेक्षः शुचिर्दक्ष उदासीनो गतव्यथः।सर्वारम्भपरित्यागी यो मद्भक्तः स मे प्रियः।।12.16।।
anapekṣhaḥ śhuchir dakṣha udāsīno gata-vyathaḥ sarvārambha-parityāgī yo mad-bhaktaḥ sa me priyaḥ
Word Meanings
| anapekṣhaḥ | indifferent to worldly gain |
| śhuchiḥ | pure |
| dakṣhaḥ | skillful |
| udāsīnaḥ | without cares |
| gata-vyathaḥ | untroubled |
| sarva-ārambha | of all undertakings |
| parityāgī | renouncer |
| saḥ | who |
| mat-bhaktaḥ | my devotee |
| saḥ | he |
| me | to ne |
| priyaḥ | very dear |
Translation
He who is free from wants, pure, expert, unconcerned, and free from pain, renouncing all undertakings and commencements, he who is devoted to Me is dear to Me.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse describes the inner qualities that make a true devotee dear to the Divine: someone who is free from constant wants, pure in heart, and steady in action. Such a person is skilled in life — able to act well without being shaken by success or failure.
Being "unconcerned" and "free from pain" here means staying calm and steady in joy or sorrow, not denying feeling but not being ruled by it. Renouncing "all undertakings" points to giving up attachment to the results of actions, not necessarily stopping work; it means acting without selfish craving for outcomes.
In short, devotion that the Divine loves is practical and balanced: purity, competence, calmness, and freedom from desire for personal gain.
Life Application
- Before starting any task, ask: "Why am I doing this?" Let purpose be service or duty, not only reward.
- Practice small daily habits that keep the mind pure and steady (honesty, simple meals, short meditation or mindful breathing).
- When you feel upset or anxious, pause, breathe, and choose the next action skillfully without chasing immediate comfort.
Reflection Question
What one desire am I holding onto now, and can I do my next action without needing its result?