Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Verse 3

English Translation

For the sage who wishes to ascend to (Dhyana-) yoga, action is said to be the means. For that person, when he has ascended to (Dhyana-)yoga, inaction alone is said to be the means.

Detailed Commentary

"For the *Muni* who wishes to ascend to Yoga, *karma* is said to be the means." For such a thoughtful *Yogi* who desires to be established in Yoga (equanimity), performing their duty with a *Nishkama bhava* (desireless attitude) is important. This means that our life cannot function without *karma*. The body, senses (*Indriyas*), mind, intellect (*Buddhi*), etc., are all gifts of *Prakriti*. Until we dedicate them to the service of society, we cannot become stable in Yoga, because all these elements of *Prakriti* are intertwined with society. We must take the responsibility of employing the objects of *Prakriti* in the service of society. When we do this, our actions flow towards society, and we become established in Yoga. The Lord has stated that the *karma* of those who act for *Yajna* (i.e., for the benefit of others) is not binding (Gita 4.23), whereas actions performed for oneself are binding (Gita 3.9). Becoming steady in Yoga through *karma* is possible because only then do we realize whether we maintain *samata* (equipoise) in the attainment or non-attainment of results. While performing *karma*, if we remain in *samata*, free from *Raga-Dvesha* (attachment and aversion), then it is correct, for that becomes the means (*karana*) in Karma Yoga. However, if there is no *samata*, and *Raga-Dvesha* are present, then by associating with inertness (*jadata*), it does not become the means in Karma Yoga. "The cause for becoming *Yogarudha* (established in Yoga) is *Shanti* (peace)." Attachment to untruth leads to restlessness (*ashanti*). This body, etc., are false *Prakriti*, with which our relationship is momentary. When we dedicate them to the service of society and sever our connection with them, we attain *shanti*. If the *sadhaka* (spiritual seeker) begins to take pleasure in that *shanti*, they become bound. But if they do not develop attachment (*raga*) to that *shanti*, then that *shanti* becomes the cause for the attainment of *Paramatma-tattva* (the ultimate reality). Connection -- The answer to who becomes *Yogarudha* is given in the next verse.