Karma and Karma Yoga

The meaning of the term ‘karma’ is prismatic. It refers to action in general and this includes one’s ordained duties as well as acts of ritualistic worship. It also refers to the results of action.

The Gita reconciles the various issues on the point of individual action in a brilliant way and shows that all karma is intended to purify the jivatma and prepare him for self-knowledge,

When one engages in any action, he is performing karma. It might be argued that when one gets immersed in the actions of the world, where is the possibility of seeking liberation. Moreover, every action binds and the individual is caught in the chain of consequences.

So is withdrawing from all action to retire to a life of solitude a way to salvation? The way out is by converting karma to karma yoga, says Krishna. This is possible if one sees God as the prime mover and dedicates his acts and the fruits of his acts to Him. He is then able to carry on his work with total involvement and commitment, while detaching himself from the fruits of his acts and the sense of doership. Actions done in this mental frame frees one from the bondage of karma.

Sage Suka describes in detail the way King Bharata ruled his kingdom in a rightful manner and also engaged in the performance of the sacred rites and rituals prescribed in the Vedas.

The Gita refers to Janaka as a king who is deeply involved in his ordained duties and is also a realised soul. The Lord Himself is the ideal karma yogi, in the way He tirelessly maintains the entire creation while standing apart. He has nothing to gain, for He is above all wants.