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Chapter 5 • Verse 12
The Yoga of Renunciation
MEANING & CONTEXT
Krishna contrasts two states: the yogi (yuktaḥ) who abandons fruits of action (karma-phalaṁ tyaktvā) attains permanent peace (naiṣṭhikīm śāntim). The non-yogi (ayuktaḥ) who is attached to fruits (phale saktaḥ) by desire (kāma-kāreṇa) is bound (nibadhyate). This is the core teaching of karma yoga: attachment to results creates bondage, while detachment from results creates freedom. The yogi acts without seeking fruits—this brings permanent peace. The non-yogi acts with desire for results—this creates bondage. The difference isn't in the action itself, but in the attitude toward results.
Explore Human Experiences
How this ancient wisdom applies to your daily life
Key Takeaway
This verse reveals the core teaching of karma yoga: attachment to results creates bondage, while detachment from results creates permanent peace. The yogi acts without seeking fruits—this brings peace. The non-yogi acts with desire for results—this creates bondage. The difference isn't in the action itself, but in the attitude toward results. You can perform the same actions, but if you're attached to outcomes, you're bound. If you're detached from outcomes, you're free. The choice is yours: bondage through attachment, or peace through detachment.
Personal Reflection
Are you attached to the fruits of your actions, creating bondage? Or have you abandoned attachment to results, attaining peace? Where do you see the difference between acting with desire and acting with detachment?
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