Chapter 2 Verse 40
Sānkhya Yog
नेहाभिक्रमनाशोऽस्ति प्रत्यवायो न विद्यते। स्वल्पमप्यस्य धर्मस्य त्रायते महतो भयात्।।2.40।।
nehābhikrama-nāśho ’sti pratyavāyo na vidyate svalpam apyasya dharmasya trāyate mahato bhayāt
Word Meanings
| na | not |
| iha | in this |
| abhikrama | efforts |
| nāśhaḥ | loss |
| asti | there is |
| pratyavāyaḥ | adverse result |
| na | not |
| vidyate | is |
| su-alpam | a little |
| api | even |
| asya | of this |
| dharmasya | occupation |
| trāyate | saves |
| mahataḥ | from great |
| bhayāt | danger |
Translation
In this, there is no loss of effort, nor is there any harm produced, nor any transgression. Even a little of this knowledge protects one from great fear.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse says that sincere effort in spiritual learning and right action is never wasted. Seeking truth and practicing virtues does not bring harm or lead you astray.
Even a small amount of genuine understanding or steady practice can shield you from deep fear and confusion. Knowledge and steady duty build inner strength that protects you in big crises.
So, start wherever you are: small, honest steps in understanding and living rightly accumulate and keep you safe from many anxieties.
Life Application
- Spend a few minutes daily on a quiet practice: reading a meaningful text, reflecting on one teaching, or meditating to build steady clarity.
- Apply one simple truth to a difficult choice (honesty, patience, or duty) and notice how it reduces stress about outcomes.
- When afraid or confused, remind yourself that even small, right actions add up and will help you face challenges.
Reflection Question
What small spiritual or ethical step can I take today that would ease my fear or confusion?