33. Focus on Karma not Karma-phal

 



In the iconic verse 2.47 of the Gita, Krishna says that we have the right to do karma (action) but have no right over the karma-phal (fruits of action). He further says that karma-phal shouldn’t be the motivating factor for any of our actions. At the same time, we should not lean towards akarma (inaction). This is the most quoted verse from the Gita as it touches upon multiple aspects of life.

Krishna says that shraddha (trust) has the power to bring about miracles (7.21-7.22). The sincere practice of this verse’s literal meaning, with shraddha, can lead one to the pinnacle of karma yoga. This helps us internalise the essence without delving deeply into its logic or analysing its various facets.

The next progression will be to understand that focusing on karma-phal of our actions will make us lose sight of karma itself. As a result, we will be denied karma-phal itself. A poorly executed karma such as studying by a student, can never yield the desired karma-phal like good exam results. The verse emphasises that we should focus on doing our best in any situation that we face.

Thirdly, karma occurs in the present moment while karma-phal is received in the future, which is a combination of several possibilities. Krishna tells us to live in the present moment, as we have only a modicum of control over the present and none over the past or the future.

Krishna clarifies that through devotion to sva-karma (one’s deed or duty), one attains siddhi (perfection or freedom), for such devotion is nothing but worshipping Him from whom all beings arise and by whom all this is pervaded (18.45-18.46). This clearly indicates that through devotion to karma alone we can attain Him.

Whatever may be the approach or understanding, this verse has the potential to bring us samatva (equanimity) by helping us transcend the never-ending waves of polarities.


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