Chapter 18 Verse 49
Mokṣha Sanyās Yog
असक्तबुद्धिः सर्वत्र जितात्मा विगतस्पृहः।नैष्कर्म्यसिद्धिं परमां संन्यासेनाधिगच्छति।।18.49।।
asakta-buddhiḥ sarvatra jitātmā vigata-spṛihaḥ naiṣhkarmya-siddhiṁ paramāṁ sannyāsenādhigachchhati
Word Meanings
| asakta-buddhiḥ | those whose intellect is unattached |
| sarvatra | everywhere |
| jita-ātmā | who have mastered their mind |
| vigata-spṛihaḥ | free from desires |
| naiṣhkarmya-siddhim | state of actionlessness |
| paramām | highest |
| sanyāsena | by the practice of renunciation |
| adhigachchhati | attain |
Translation
He whose intellect is unattached everywhere, who has subdued his self, from whom desire has fled, he attains the supreme state of freedom from action through renunciation.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse teaches that a person who keeps their mind free from attachment, who has gained control over their thoughts and feelings, and who no longer chases desires, reaches a deep inner freedom. That freedom is called the supreme state of actionlessness — not laziness, but a calm state where actions are not driven by craving.
"Renunciation" here means letting go of attachment to results and wants, not necessarily abandoning responsibilities. When you act from a place of inner calm rather than from desire, your actions lose their binding power and bring peace.
Life Application
- Before acting, pause and ask: "Am I doing this for a result or because it is right?" Practice choosing the right, not the reward.
- Build small habits to reduce craving: limit wants, practice gratitude, and simplify choices (for example, buy less, compare less).
- Use short daily pauses or breath awareness to notice urges and let them pass instead of following them immediately.
Reflection Question
What one desire can I let go of today to feel more peaceful?