ब्राह्मणक्षत्रियविशां शूद्राणां च परन्तप | कर्माणि प्रविभक्तानि स्वभावप्रभवैर्गुणै: || 41 || |
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Commentary
Lord Krishna addresses Arjuna as “Parantapa,” which means the chastiser of foes. He proceeds to explain that the duties and responsibilities of individuals belonging to the Brāhmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra varnas (castes) are determined by their qualities, or gunās, which arise from their inherent nature or svabhāva.
The Brahmins, born from the mode of sattva (goodness), possess qualities such as knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual inclination. Their primary duty is to engage in study, teaching, worship, and spiritual practices. They guide society in matters of spirituality, philosophy, and moral conduct.
The Kshatriyas, born from a combination of sattva and rajas (passion), exhibit qualities such as valor, leadership, and a sense of duty. Their main role is to protect and govern society, upholding justice, maintaining law and order, and defending the righteous. They serve as rulers, warriors, and administrators.
The Vaishyas, born from a combination of rajas and tamas (ignorance), possess qualities such as enterprise, business acumen, and agricultural skills. Their primary responsibilities involve trade, commerce, agriculture, and animal husbandry. They contribute to the economic development and prosperity of society.
The Shudras, born predominantly from the mode of tamas, exhibit qualities such as service-mindedness, humility, and obedience. Their primary duty is to provide assistance and support to the other varnas, serving as laborers, artisans, and helpers. They contribute to the smooth functioning of society by fulfilling various service-oriented roles.
Lord Krishna emphasizes that these divisions based on varna are not meant to create superiority or inferiority among individuals but to recognize and honor the natural inclinations and qualities inherent in each varna. By performing their prescribed duties according to their svabhāva and the qualities they possess, individuals can contribute to the harmonious functioning of society as a whole.
It is important to note that Lord Krishna later stresses the significance of performing one’s duty without attachment to the results and with a sense of surrender to God. He encourages Arjuna in his role to focus on his own prescribed duty as a warrior and fight in the righteous cause of upholding dharma.