Chapter 4 Verse 31
Jñāna Karm Sanyās Yog
यज्ञशिष्टामृतभुजो यान्ति ब्रह्म सनातनम्। नायं लोकोऽस्त्ययज्ञस्य कुतो़ऽन्यः कुरुसत्तम।।4.31।।
yajña-śhiṣhṭāmṛita-bhujo yānti brahma sanātanam nāyaṁ loko ’styayajñasya kuto ’nyaḥ kuru-sattama
Word Meanings
| yajña-śhiṣhṭa amṛita-bhujaḥ | they partake of the nectarean remnants of sacrifice |
| yānti | go |
| brahma | the Absolute Truth |
| sanātanam | eternal |
| na | never |
| ayam | this |
| lokaḥ | planet |
| asti | is |
| ayajñasya | for one who performs no sacrifice |
| kutaḥ | how |
| anyaḥ | other (world) |
| kuru-sat-tama | best of the Kurus, Arjun |
Translation
Those who eat the remnants of the sacrifice, which are like nectar, go to the eternal Brahman. This world is not for the one who does not perform sacrifice; how then can they have the other, O Arjuna?
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse says that those who share in the offerings of a sacrifice—symbolically those who give, accept, and participate in a selfless act—reach the eternal Reality (Brahman). The “nectarean remnants” point to the blessing and peace that come from sincere, shared devotion.
It also warns that a person who never practices sacrifice—who never gives, offers, or dedicates their actions—has no true place in life. If you refuse to join in selfless action here, you will not gain higher peace or spiritual fruit elsewhere.
On a deeper level, “sacrifice” means offering the fruit of your work, your time, and your ego to something larger than yourself. That offering opens the heart and leads to inner freedom and lasting peace.
Life Application
- Before work or service, dedicate your effort to a higher purpose (a short intention or prayer) and let go of need for personal gain.
- Share food, time, or resources regularly—even small acts of giving create connection and blessing.
- Practice doing one task each day without seeking praise or reward; notice how it changes your peace of mind.
Reflection Question
What small thing can I offer today without expecting anything in return?