Shloka 7
Karma Yoga — Karma Yoga
यस्त्विन्द्रियाणि मनसा नियम्यारभतेऽर्जुन । कर्मेन्द्रियैः कर्मयोगमसक्तः स विशिष्यते ॥ ३.७ ॥
yas tv indriyāṇi manasā niyamyārabhate'rjuna | karmendriyaiḥ karmayogam asaktaḥ sa viśiṣyate || 3.7 ||
แต่ผู้ใด—โอ้อรชุน—ควบคุมอินทรีย์ทั้งหลายด้วยใจ แล้วใช้อินทรีย์แห่งการกระทำประกอบกรรมโยคะโดยไม่ยึดติด ผู้นั้นประเสริฐยิ่ง
But he who, controlling the senses by the mind, O Arjuna, engages the organs of action in Karma Yoga without attachment—he excels.
But the one who, regulating the senses with the mind, begins the discipline of action with the organs of action—without attachment—he is distinguished (superior).
The verse complements 3.6: authentic practice integrates mental regulation with purposeful action. ‘Asaktaḥ’ (without attachment) is central; traditions vary on whether this implies renouncing results, egoism, or both.
FAQs
It proposes a workable model of self-regulation: attention and impulse are guided by the mind, while action continues in the world. This reduces inner conflict by giving desire a structured, value-guided outlet rather than suppression.
Non-attachment is a method for loosening identification with outcomes and roles, enabling action to occur without reinforcing ego-centered appropriation.
Krishna offers Arjuna a third option beyond indulgence or withdrawal: disciplined engagement. This sets up the chapter’s broader defense of duty performed as yoga.
Work responsibly while managing distractions and cravings. For example: set clear intentions, limit compulsive consumption, and measure success by integrity of effort rather than only external results.