Shloka 20
Karma-Saṃnyāsa–Karma-Yoga Saṃvāda
Renunciation and the Discipline of Action
कर्मणैव हि संसिद्धिमास्थिता जनकादय: । लोकसंग्रहमेवापि सम्पश्यन् कर्तुमहसि
karmaṇaiva hi saṁsiddhim āsthitā janakādayaḥ | lokasaṅgraham evāpi sampaśyan kartum arhasi ||
For it was through action alone that Janaka and other exemplars attained perfection. Therefore, even with a view to sustaining the order of the world and guiding people by your example, you ought to perform your duty.
अजुन उवाच
Educational Q&A
Perfection is attainable through disciplined action performed without attachment; exemplary figures like King Janaka reached fulfillment by doing their duties. One should act also for lokasaṅgraha—maintaining social order and guiding others through one’s example.
In the teaching on duty and renunciation, the speaker urges the listener to continue performing rightful action. Citing Janaka and other ideal rulers/sages, the verse argues that even the wise should act, because their conduct stabilizes society and instructs others.