Chapter 3 Verse 18
Karm Yog
नैव तस्य कृतेनार्थो नाकृतेनेह कश्चन। न चास्य सर्वभूतेषु कश्िचदर्थव्यपाश्रयः।।3.18।।
naiva tasya kṛitenārtho nākṛiteneha kaśhchana na chāsya sarva-bhūteṣhu kaśhchid artha-vyapāśhrayaḥ
Word Meanings
| na | not |
| eva | indeed |
| tasya | his |
| kṛitena | by discharge of duty |
| arthaḥ | gain |
| na | not |
| akṛitena | without discharge of duty |
| iha | here |
| kaśhchana | whatsoever |
| na | never |
| cha | and |
| asya | of that person |
| sarva-bhūteṣhu | among all living beings |
| kaśhchit | any |
| artha | necessity |
| vyapāśhrayaḥ | to depend upon |
Translation
For him, there is no interest whatsoever in what is done or not done; nor does he depend on any being for any purpose.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse describes a person who performs duty without attachment to results. Whether work succeeds or fails, it does not affect his inner peace because his aim is right action, not personal gain.
It also says he does not depend on others for his needs or success. He relies on steady effort and inner maturity rather than the favors, approval, or help of others.
Spiritually, this is freedom from craving and ego. Acting from duty and self-reliance leads to calmness, clarity, and moral strength in daily life.
Life Application
- Do your tasks with full attention, but let go of anxious expectation about outcomes.
- Take responsibility for your actions instead of chasing praise or favors from others.
- Build inner stability through simple habits (regular work, honest effort, gratitude) so you feel less dependent on external approval.
Reflection Question
Do I act from duty and integrity, or from a desire for reward and recognition?