Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 3 - Verse 1
Arjuna said: O Janardana, O Keshava, if it is Your opinion that wisdom is better than action, then why do You wish to engage me in such violent activities?
Arjuna said: O Janardana, O Keshava, if it is Your opinion that wisdom is better than action, then why do You wish to engage me in such violent activities?
Your words seem to be contradictory and my mind is now confused. Therefore, kindly tell me which particular path is most beneficial for me.
Bhagavan Shri Krishna said: O faultless one, previously I explained the two paths found in this world – the path of wisdom of the empirical philosophers and the path of action of those that must perform action.
A man cannot attain the state of divine consciousness free from material action simply by abstaining from action. Neither can perfection be attained simply by renunciation.
One cannot abstain from activities even for a moment. Indeed, all living beings are forced to engage in activities due to the influence of the modes of material nature.
One who controls the external senses yet mentally dwells upon the sense-objects is said to be foolish and hypocritical.
However, that person who controls the senses with the mind and engages them in karma-yoga (the path of selfless action) without attachment is superior, O Arjuna.
You should perform your prescribed duties, since action is better than inaction. You cannot maintain your existence without action.
All activities are meant for sacrifice (yajna) to Vishnu. Other than that, all other activities bind one to this material world. O son of Kunti, work for Him alone and be free from any attachment.
In the beginning of creation, Brahma created mankind along with the system of sacrifice and said, “Through this sacrifice may you prosper. May it fulfill all your desires.”