Chapter 3 Verse 11
Karm Yog
देवान्भावयतानेन ते देवा भावयन्तु वः। परस्परं भावयन्तः श्रेयः परमवाप्स्यथ।।3.11।।
devān bhāvayatānena te devā bhāvayantu vaḥ parasparaṁ bhāvayantaḥ śhreyaḥ param avāpsyatha
Word Meanings
| devān | celestial gods |
| bhāvayatā | will be pleased |
| anena | by these (sacrifices) |
| te | those |
| devāḥ | celestial gods |
| bhāvayantu | will be pleased |
| vaḥ | you |
| parasparam | one another |
| bhāvayantaḥ | pleasing one another |
| śhreyaḥ | prosperity |
| param | the supreme |
| avāpsyatha | shall achieve |
Translation
With this, nourish the gods, and may the gods nourish you; thus, nourishing each other, you shall attain the highest good.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse says: give back to the sources that sustain you, and they will give back to you. "Devās" can mean gods, nature, or the people and systems that keep life running. When you support what nourishes life, it returns as well-being.
The teaching is about mutual care and duty. Acts of giving and service are not just charity — they keep balance and bring long-term good. Doing your duty as an offering, without selfish attachment, leads to the highest good.
Life Application
- Offer your time, skill, or resources to those who support you (family, community workers, the environment). Small consistent acts matter.
- Treat work and relationships as service, not only a transaction. A helpful attitude strengthens bonds and brings support back.
- Respect nature and the systems you depend on: reduce waste, support local producers, and say thanks to those who serve you.
Reflection Question
Who or what sustains my life right now, and how can I nourish it today?