Verse 3.17 : Karma Yoga "Path of Selfless Action"
Verse 17 of 43
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The Translation
“But for the person who rejoices only in the Self, who is satisfied with the Self, and who is fully content in the Self alone, there remains no obligatory duty to perform.”
Commentary & Insights
Krishna introduces the state of absolute spiritual freedom: the self-realized sage who has transcended the need for worldly duties because they are already complete.
Practical Application
1
Practice unconditional self-acceptance today: repeat to yourself, 'I am enough as I am,' and notice how it reduces your urge to seek external approval.
Reflections & Notes
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Self-Reflection Prompts
- What is the source of your daily happiness? Is it external circumstances, or your internal state of mind?
- How would you act differently if you felt completely satisfied and lacked nothing?
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3.17
यस्त्वात्मरतिरेव स्यादात्मतृप्तश्च मानवः
Shankara emphasizes that for a knower of the Self, there is no work left to be done. Obligatory duties are only for those who still identify with the body and mind and have not realized their non-dual nature.