Bhagavad Gita Chapter 3, Verse 20 (BG 3.20) — Meaning, Translation & Commentary

3.20 कर्मणा by action? एव only? हि verily? संसिद्धिम् perfection? आस्थिताः attained? जनकादयः Janaka and others? लोकसंग्रहम् protection of the masses? एवापि only? संपश्यन् having in view? कर्तुम् to perform? अर्हसि thou shouldst.Commentary Samsiddhi is Moksha (perfection or liberation). Janaka? (Asvapati) and others had perfect knowledge of the Self? and yet they performed actions in order to set an example to the masses. They worked for the guidance of men.

Commentaries

Contemporary scholarly and practical interpretations for modern seekers.

This interpretation draws on a specific tradition and may not represent the view of any single school. For authoritative guidance within a specific tradition, seek a qualified teacher.

Modern

In ancient times, wise kings such as Janaka and Ashvapati attained perfection through action. Through the yoga of action, performing their duties with proper knowledge, detachment, and the spirit of offering, they were liberated from bondage. By living a life of sacred service, they established an ideal for the world. Sri Krishna declares that Arjuna, by virtue of being born a prince, bore the responsibility of protecting the people and upholding dharma—a duty he was bound to fulfill. Rather than fleeing from the impending war due to past karma, he should honor his duty and engage in battle with skill and wisdom. This was the sole means to dissolve his binding desires and attachments. Because of his birth in a royal family, Arjuna carried a greater responsibility for the protection of society than an ordinary person. Therefore, at that time, it was absolutely essential for him to discharge his duty in the form of war. A creeping vine does not grow in a desert. According to the laws of nature, every living being finds itself suited to an environment conducive to its own nature. From this perspective, since Arjuna was born into a warrior royal family, it was natural that this environment was suited to him. He was equipped for a life of courageously confronting dangers and enemies, and of striving for peace and progress in society. As to why one should work for the welfare of the world—the answer is...