कर्म अवलंबन

Summary

The text discusses the nature of action (karma) and its necessity for all living beings, with a particular focus on humans. It states that every creature, including plants, performs actions according to its inherent duty (swadharma). Humans, being the highest among living beings, have a unique and significant role, as their actions affect others. The text references Socrates, who said that humans commit sins out of ignorance, and the Bhagavad Gita, which teaches that knowledge brings equanimity of intellect, preventing sin. A person who has attained full knowledge is considered an ideal and a standard for ethical conduct. However, even such a person must perform actions; knowledge without action can become a burden. Mahatma Gandhi is quoted as saying that knowledge does not come without action. Kaka Kalelkar views the avoidance of physical labor as social treason, arguing that the wealthy and intellectual avoid it, while those who perform physical labor are denied education to prevent them from demanding higher wages. Vinoba Bhave emphasizes that both intellectual and physical labor are necessary and equally respected. The text clarifies that performing actions is the fulfillment of one's duty, and no one, whether wealthy or wise, can achieve desired results without action. It discusses the Gita's teaching to perform actions without attachment to results, but questions whether this is practical, as even Arjuna fought to win. Kaka Kalelkar notes that everyone considers the outcome of their actions, like watering plants for them to grow. The text concludes that attachment to results leads to ego and social discord, as seen in contemporary society where various groups claim credit for achievements and blame others for failures. It calls for understanding one's true duty and performing actions without attachment to foster social harmony, especially on International Labor Day.