101. Emulating the Lotus Leaf

Every physical system takes different inputs and produces certain outputs. We constantly measure or judge our outputs like words and deeds. We also judge the deeds of others as well as different situations around us. In fact, in the evolutionary process, judging threats was very important for survival itself. However, the issue is the absence of standards for judging deeds, and we often depend on ignorance-based perceptions and belief systems. We feel happy and satisfied whenever we encounter a deed done which conforms to our belief system.

In this connection, Krishna says, “He who is united by yoga, who has purified and conquered self, subdued his senses, who realises his self as the self in all beings, is not entangled although acting” (5.7). Non-entanglement is often interpreted as being untainted, and this verse is the Lord’s assurance that the actions of the purified are not tainted.

Karmas are not tainted when performed by someone who is purified i.e. free of hatred and desires (5.3). The point to be noted is that when one sees himself in all beings then there is no way that one performs tainted actions or crimes. On the contrary, all our actions become tainted when performed through the lens of division - of 'us' and 'them'.

When it comes to judging the situations around us, Krishna says that he who, dedicating his actions to Brahma, acts abandoning sangam (unity/attachment), is not tainted by sin as a lotus leaf by water (5.10).

When our deeds as well as those of others are dedicated to the Lord, there is no scope for division. The situations we then face will appear to be dramas and plays, where we play our part and Krishna compares this with the lotus leaf.