Chapter 4 • Verse 17

Jnana Karma Sanyasa Yoga

The Yoga of Knowledge and Renunciation

Sanskrit Verse

Karmano hy api boddhavyam boddhavyam ca vikarmanah, akarmanas ca boddhavyam gahana karmano gatih

Translation & Meaning

The intricacies of action must be understood — and similarly the intricacies of forbidden action and of inaction must be known. The truth of action is profound and difficult to fathom.

Key Teachings

  • Three categories of action must be distinguished: karma, vikarma, akarma
  • Forbidden action (vikarma) binds the soul negatively
  • Inaction (akarma) in the midst of action is the highest freedom

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