
Chapter 3 Verse 7
Karm Yog
यस्त्विन्द्रियाणि मनसा नियम्यारभतेऽर्जुन। कर्मेन्द्रियैः कर्मयोगमसक्तः स विशिष्यते।।3.7।।
yas tvindriyāṇi manasā niyamyārabhate ’rjuna karmendriyaiḥ karma-yogam asaktaḥ sa viśhiṣhyate
Word Meanings
| yaḥ | who |
| tu | but |
| indriyāṇi | the senses |
| manasā | by the mind |
| niyamya | control |
| ārabhate | begins |
| arjuna | Arjun |
| karma-indriyaiḥ | by the working senses |
| karma-yogam | karm yog |
| asaktaḥ | without attachment |
| saḥ | they |
| viśhiṣhyate | are superior |
Translation
But whoever, controlling the senses by the mind, O Arjuna, engages himself in Karma Yoga with the organs of action, without attachment, he excels.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse teaches that the mind should guide the senses rather than the other way around. When you control impulses and impulses do not control you, your actions become deliberate instead of reactive.
Acting with the organs of action (hands, speech, body) as part of Karma Yoga means doing your work sincerely but without clinging to rewards. Such detached engagement makes your action more effective and frees you from stress over results.
This is not about denying life or repressing needs, but about channeling energy wisely. Self-discipline and mindful choice turn ordinary duties into a path of inner growth and steadiness.
Life Application
- Before acting, take a breath and name your intention: am I doing this from need, habit, or purpose?
- Do your tasks fully, then let go of expectation—focus on effort and quality rather than praise or outcome.
- Practice small controls (limit screen time, skip one craving, speak less impulsively) to build steady willpower.
Reflection Question
Which desire or habit is most often driving my choices today?

