Chapter 4 Verse 34
Jñāna Karm Sanyās Yog
तद्विद्धि प्रणिपातेन परिप्रश्नेन सेवया। उपदेक्ष्यन्ति ते ज्ञानं ज्ञानिनस्तत्त्वदर्शिनः।।4.34।।
tad viddhi praṇipātena paripraśhnena sevayā upadekṣhyanti te jñānaṁ jñāninas tattva-darśhinaḥ
Word Meanings
| tat | the Truth |
| viddhi | try to learn |
| praṇipātena | by approaching a spiritual master |
| paripraśhnena | by humble inquiries |
| sevayā | by rendering service |
| upadekṣhyanti | can impart |
| te | unto you |
| jñānam | knowledge |
| jñāninaḥ | the enlightened |
| tattva-darśhinaḥ | those who have realized the Truth |
Translation
Know that the wise who have realized the truth will instruct thee in that knowledge through long prostration, supplication, and service.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse says true spiritual knowledge comes from those who have seen the truth. To receive it, you must approach them with humility, ask sincere questions, and offer service, not with pride.
Humble seeking softens the mind and opens you to deeper insight. Service and respectful questioning help you test and live the teaching, so that learning becomes real, not just words.
A teacher who has realized the truth guides by example and points out what you cannot see on your own. The process is active: listen, practice, and return with honest doubts.
Life Application
- Find a trusted guide or experienced practitioner and meet them with humility—listen more than you speak.
- Ask clear, honest questions and offer practical help or time; learning grows through service and practice, not just reading.
- Apply small teachings in daily life and report back; real change comes from trying and checking progress.
Reflection Question
What humble step can I take today to learn from someone wiser?