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Is it possible to work without expecting results? || Acharya Prashant, on Bhagvad Gita (2020)
Scriptures and Saints
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2 years ago
Shrimad Bhagavad Gita
Nishkam Karma
Ego
Self-doubt
Fulfillment
Desire
Wisdom
Spirituality
Description

Acharya Prashant addresses a question regarding the famous verse from the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Hymn 47, which states that one's right is to action alone and never to its fruits. The questioner admits that every action they perform—working for money, learning music for pleasure, or interacting with family for security—is driven by a desire for specific gains. Acharya Prashant explains that wisdom like that of Shri Krishna cannot help someone who is smug and satisfied with their current patterns. He notes that the teaching of Nishkam Karma (selfless action) begins only at the point of deep dissatisfaction and self-doubt, similar to that experienced by Arjun. If one believes their current cycle of cause and effect is serving them perfectly, they have no need for spiritual guidance. He challenges the questioner's simplistic view of life, pointing out that expectations are rarely fulfilled, and even when they are, they do not bring true fulfillment. For instance, while a job provides a paycheck, it also brings stress, anxiety, and comparison. Acharya Prashant argues that the ego is a defective machine that expects completion from material goals, such as buying a house or a sofa, which can never deliver liberation. He suggests that the way to overcome this is to stop honoring the goals set by the ego. Instead of spending resources on personal gratification, one should direct them toward a higher, intangible cause that serves to dissolve the ego rather than inflate it. Finally, Acharya Prashant emphasizes that all activities, including learning music or interacting with family, should be redirected toward a greater purpose. He contrasts the superficial use of music for social validation with how saints used it for spiritual expression. He observes that typical family interactions often lead to gossip and insecurity rather than peace. He concludes by urging the listener to ensure that every action, no matter how small, is dedicated to a purpose higher than the petty desires of the self, as true wisdom lies in recognizing the futility of self-centric endeavors.