Contents
Gita Madhurya -Swami Ramsukhdas
Chapter XVIII
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O Lord, these are the opinions of the men of wisdom. But what is Your views in this respect? O noble Arjuna, out of the two, Samnyasa and Tyaga, hear from Me. the truth about this abandonment (Tyaga). Abandonment has been declared to be of three kinds. Acts of sacrifice, gift and penance should not be relinquished, but must be performed, for each of them is purifying to the wise.(4-5) Should only these noble acts be performed? My considered and best opinion is that these acts of sacrifice, gift and penance and all other actions, which are approved by the scriptures, must be performed relinquishing attachment and fruit.(6) O Lord, abandonment has been described of three kinds by You. What are the characteristics of that abandonment? Renunciation of action prescribed by the scriptures (Niyatakarma)[1]is not proper for anyone. Its abandonment out of ignorance has been declared as 'Tamasika' form of abandonment.(7) What are the characteristics of Rajasika abandonment? He, who forsakes his duty from fear of bodily discomfort because it is labourious, practises Rajasika form of abandonment. Such a person does not get the fruit of relinquishment viz., does not get peace.(8) |
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References and Context
- ↑ There is some difference between `Vihita Karma' and 'Niyata Karma'. All the actions approved by the scriptures are 'Vihita Karma'. For example there are so many fasts which should be observed according to the scriptures. But if a man observes all of them, when will he have a meal? It means mhat all 'Vihita Karmas' are not applicable to every person, out of these 'Vihita Karmas' he should discharge his obligatory duty according to his Varna (caste) pertaining to his livelihood and maintenance of the body. This duty is called 'Niyata Karma'.