Chapter 3 Verse 29
Karm Yog
प्रकृतेर्गुणसम्मूढाः सज्जन्ते गुणकर्मसु। तानकृत्स्नविदो मन्दान्कृत्स्नविन्न विचालयेत्।।3.29।।
prakṛiter guṇa-sammūḍhāḥ sajjante guṇa-karmasu tān akṛitsna-vido mandān kṛitsna-vin na vichālayet
Word Meanings
| prakṛiteḥ | of material nature |
| guṇa | by the modes of material nature |
| sammūḍhāḥ | deluded |
| sajjante | become attached |
| guṇa-karmasu | to results of actions |
| tān | those |
| akṛitsna-vidaḥ | persons without knowledge |
| mandān | the ignorant |
| kṛitsna-vit | persons with knowledge |
| na vichālayet | should not unsettle |
Translation
Those deluded by the qualities of Nature are attached to the functions of the qualities. The man of perfect knowledge should not unsettle the foolish one who is of imperfect knowledge.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
People act and cling to results because they are shaped by natural tendencies (the three gunas). These tendencies make them see actions and their fruits as central to life. Such attachment comes from limited understanding, not deliberate fault.
A wise person sees that these attachments arise from nature, not from the true self. Out of compassion and skill, the wise should not unsettle or harshly criticize those who are still caught by these tendencies. Sudden shock or harsh words often push people deeper into confusion.
This verse invites patience and gentle guidance. Teach by steady example, offer simple help, and allow people to grow at their own pace rather than forcing immediate change.
Life Application
- Be patient with others’ beliefs and habits; avoid shaming or sudden confrontations.
- Lead by quiet example—live your values consistently instead of arguing them.
- Offer small, clear steps for change and respect people’s current duties and limitations.
Reflection Question
How can I support someone’s growth today without criticizing where they are now?