Verse 18-6

एतान्यपि तु कर्माणि सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा फलानि च |

कर्तव्यानीति मे पार्थ निश्चितं मतमुत्तमम् || 6 ||

“O Arjuna, in addition to the aforementioned practices, these actions too, when performed without attachment to the fruits, are to be carried out as duties. This is My highest and definite opinion.”

Commentary

Lord Krishna emphasizes the importance of performing one’s duties without attachment to the results. He advises Arjuna to engage in actions that are in accordance with his prescribed duties as a warrior and a righteous person. However, the key point is to detach oneself from the desire for personal gains or outcomes.

 

By performing actions selflessly, without expecting rewards or being motivated by selfish desires, individuals can cultivate a sense of detachment. This detachment liberates them from the anxieties and entanglements caused by attachment to the fruits of their actions. It allows them to focus on performing their duties with dedication, sincerity, and excellence.

 

Lord Krishna encourages Arjuna to understand that it is his duty to fulfill his responsibilities as a warrior in the battle of Kurukshetra. However, he should not be attached to the outcomes of his actions, such as victory or defeat. Instead, he should surrender the fruits of his actions to the divine will and perform his duties as an offering to the higher purpose.

 

This teaching is applicable not only to Arjuna but to all individuals in their respective roles and responsibilities. It reminds us to approach our duties with a sense of detachment, focusing on the present moment and performing our actions to the best of our abilities, without being swayed by the desire for specific outcomes. By adopting this attitude, we can develop a state of equanimity, inner peace, and spiritual growth.