Srimad Bhagavatam — Ekadasha Skandha, Shloka 51
Varṇāśrama-dharma as a Path to Bhakti
Yuga-dharma Origins, Universal Virtues, Brahmacarya and Gṛhastha Duties
यदृच्छयोपपन्नेन शुक्लेनोपार्जितेन वा । धनेनापीडयन् भृत्यान् न्यायेनैवाहरेत् क्रतून् ॥ ५१ ॥
yadṛcchayopapannena śuklenopārjitena vā dhanenāpīḍayan bhṛtyān nyāyenaivāharet kratūn
A householder should maintain his dependents in comfort, using wealth that comes of its own accord or that is honestly and purely earned by dutiful work, without oppressing anyone. According to his means, he should perform yajñas and other sacred rites in a just manner.
The Lord here describes the religious duties that are to be performed as far as possible, according to one’s means, and when there is opportunity.
FAQs
This verse teaches that one should rely on providential gain or honestly earned, “pure” wealth, and use it for religious duties—without injustice or exploitation.
In the Uddhava-gītā section, Krishna summarizes proper conduct and varṇāśrama principles, emphasizing that dharma must be practiced ethically—without oppressing those under one’s care.
Earn through clean means, budget for spiritual/charitable duties, and ensure your work or religious commitments do not cause undue strain on family, employees, or dependents.