Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4, Verse 31

English Translation

Those who partake of the nectar left over after a sacrifice, reach the eternal Brahman. This world ceases to exist for one who does not perform sacrifices. What to speak of the other (world), O best among the Kurus (Arjuna)!

Detailed Commentary

_Yajñaśiṣṭāmṛtabhujo yānti brahma sanātanam_ -- By performing Yajna, that is, by giving happiness to others without any desire, one experiences Samata (equanimity or oneness). This experience is of the 'Yajñashishta Amrita' (the nectar remaining after Yajna). Those who experience Amrita, or immortality, attain the eternal Parabrahma Paramatma (Bhagavad Gita 3.13). The true nature of man is immortal. The experience of death arises only through association with things that perish. When these things are utilized for the welfare of the world and one becomes Asanga (unattached) to them, one automatically experiences immortality. If Dharma is performed solely as Dharma, it becomes Yajna. An action performed entirely for the welfare of others is indeed Dharma. Actions done for self-interest are not Dharma; they are merely Karma, which leads to bondage. Therefore, in Yajna, there is only giving; taking is only for one's needs (Bhagavad Gita 4.21). To ensure the body remains capable of performing Yajna, utilizing things merely for the body's sustenance is also part of Yajna. The human body is meant for Yajna. Using it for honor, prestige, pleasure, and comfort is binding. By acting solely for Yajna, one becomes liberated from bondage and attains the Sanatana Brahma. _Nāyaṁ lokō'styayajñasya kutō'nyaḥ kurusattama_ -- Just as the Lord stated in the eighth verse of the third chapter that one's body would not be sustained by not performing action (Karma), here He says that without Yajna, even this world (loka) will yield no benefit; what then of the other world (paraloka)! Performing actions solely out of self-interest will create conflict and disrupt peace and happiness in this world, and will not lead to welfare in the other world either. Not fulfilling one's duty creates division and conflict even within the home. If a selfish person lives in a home, their presence is not pleasing. Giving happiness to all through one's duty, by renouncing self-interest, is the art of living in a home or in the world. Fulfilling duties also inspires others. This brings unity and peace to the home. However, by not fulfilling duties, living happily in this world becomes difficult; what then to speak of other worlds! Conversely, by adhering to duty, this world becomes joyful, and so does the other world. Connection -- In the sixteenth verse of this very chapter, the Lord had spoken of the essence of actions (Karma). Having elaborated on it, the Lord now states its conclusion.