Chapter 3 Verse 19
Karm Yog
तस्मादसक्तः सततं कार्यं कर्म समाचर। असक्तो ह्याचरन्कर्म परमाप्नोति पूरुषः।।3.19।।
tasmād asaktaḥ satataṁ kāryaṁ karma samāchara asakto hyācharan karma param āpnoti pūruṣhaḥ
Word Meanings
| tasmāt | therefore |
| asaktaḥ | without attachment |
| satatam | constantly |
| kāryam | duty |
| karma | action |
| samāchara | perform |
| asaktaḥ | unattached |
| hi | certainly |
| ācharan | performing |
| karma | work |
| param | the Supreme |
| āpnoti | attains |
| pūruṣhaḥ | a person |
Translation
Therefore, without attachment, always perform the actions that should be done; for by performing actions without attachment, one reaches the Supreme.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse teaches that we should do our duty steadily and without clinging to the results. Action itself is necessary; what matters is the attitude we bring to it — calm, focused, and unattached.
When we work without wanting rewards or praise, our actions stop creating inner turmoil and do not bind us to fear, greed, or regret. This freedom from attachment opens the heart to a deeper connection with the Supreme — a state of peace and fulfillment beyond outcomes.
Constant practice of right action, not occasional grand gestures, builds a stable life of service and inner balance. Over time, selfless work transforms both the doer and the world around them.
Life Application
- Do your regular tasks with full attention, but release worry about success or failure.
- Offer the fruits of your work to something larger than yourself (family, community, a higher purpose) instead of personal gain.
- Keep a steady routine of small, meaningful actions rather than waiting for dramatic opportunities.
Reflection Question
Where in my life am I acting for results rather than from steady, quiet duty?