Chapter 4 Verse 42
Jñāna Karm Sanyās Yog
तस्मादज्ञानसंभूतं हृत्स्थं ज्ञानासिनाऽऽत्मनः। छित्त्वैनं संशयं योगमातिष्ठोत्तिष्ठ भारत।।4.42।।
tasmād ajñāna-sambhūtaṁ hṛit-sthaṁ jñānāsinātmanaḥ chhittvainaṁ sanśhayaṁ yogam ātiṣhṭhottiṣhṭha bhārata
Word Meanings
| tasmāt | therefore |
| ajñāna-sambhūtam | born of ignorance |
| hṛit-stham | situated in the heart |
| jñāna | of knowledge |
| asinā | with the sword |
| ātmanaḥ | of the self |
| chhittvā | cut asunder |
| enam | this |
| sanśhayam | doubt |
| yogam | in karm yog |
| ātiṣhṭha | take shelter |
| uttiṣhṭha | arise |
| bhārata | Arjun, descendant of Bharat |
Translation
Therefore, with the sword of knowledge (of the Self), cut asunder the doubt of the self, born of ignorance, residing in your heart, and take refuge in Yoga. Arise, O Arjuna!
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
Ignorance creates a small but powerful doubt inside the heart about who we truly are and what we should do. This verse says use the "sword of knowledge" — clear understanding of the Self and truth — to cut that doubt away.
Once doubt is removed, take refuge in Yoga: steady practice, right action, and inner discipline. That steadiness removes hesitation and allows you to act with clarity and purpose. Arise and move forward — wisdom leads to confident, calm action.
Life Application
- When confused, pause and ask: "What does my deeper self value?" Let that clarity guide your choice rather than fear or habit.
- Build a simple daily practice (meditation, self-inquiry, reading wise teachings) to sharpen understanding and reduce inner doubt.
- After gaining clarity, act promptly and steadily instead of waiting for perfect certainty.
Reflection Question
What one doubt is stopping me from acting in line with my deeper values right now?