Jiva Vidya

What Is Karma

Key Insight:
Karma is the law of action and reaction, but the Gita emphasizes 'Nishkama Karma'—performing action without attachment to results.

Definition

Karma refers to intentional actions that lead to future consequences. The Bhagavad Gita refines this into three types: Karma, Akarma, and Vikarma.

Origin in the Gita

Krishna explains in Chapter 2, Verse 47 that you have a right to the action only, never to its fruits.

Practical Application

It means focusing 100% on the quality of your work today, rather than worrying about the promotion or praise tomorrow.

Modern Interpretation

A psychological state of 'Flow', where you are so absorbed in the process that the outcome doesn't distract you.

Daily Life Example

An artist painting for the love of the art, not just to sell the canvas for a high price.

Relevant Verses

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Bhagavad Gita 2.47
कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन |
मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि || 47 ||
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Bhagavad Gita 3.8
नियतं कुरु कर्म त्वं कर्म ज्यायो ह्यकर्मण: | शरीरयात्रापि च ते न प्रसिद्ध्येदकर्मण: ॥8॥
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Bhagavad Gita 4.18
कर्मण्यकर्म य: पश्येदकर्मणि च कर्म य: | स बुद्धिमान्मनुष्येषु स युक्त: कृत्स्नकर्मकृत् ॥18॥
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