karmasu kartum arhasi
“You should strive to perform actions.”
Structure
karmasu kartum arhasi
tvam arhasi kartum karmasu
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| karmasu | karmasu | compound | tatpuruṣa · "karma + su" | in actions |
| kartum | kartum | infinitive | — | to do |
| arhasi | arhasi | verb | √arh · laṭ-present · second | you are able or ought to |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In the Bhagavad Gītā, the verse 'karmasu kartum arhasi' is pivotal for understanding the non-dual nature of reality. According to Shankara, actions (karmasu) are to be performed without attachment, as a means to realize one's true nature, which is brahman. The emphasis on 'kartum arhasi' (you should strive to perform) suggests an active engagement in duties, but with a consciousness that transcends the doer-done-action triad. Shankara's commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, especially in Chapter 4, highlights the importance of performing actions as a sacrifice to the Supreme, thereby negating the ego and realizing the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the universal self (brahman). This realization is the ultimate goal, and through selfless action, one approaches it.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): The Vaiṣṇava interpretation of 'karmasu kartum arhasi' underscores the significance of devotional service to Īśvara. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes that performing actions (karmasu) is a means to please the Lord. The phrase 'kartum arhasi' implies a sense of duty and privilege to serve the divine. For Rāmānujācārya, the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord) is one of dependence and love. Actions performed with a sense of devotion and surrender to Īśvara lead to liberation. Madhvācārya, similarly, views actions as a means to attain the grace of Viṣṇu, though he emphasizes the distinction between the Lord and the individual self, highlighting the jīva's complete dependence on Īśvara for liberation.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda interprets 'karmasu kartum arhasi' as a call to action, emphasizing the importance of selfless work for the betterment of society. He sees in this verse a universal principle that transcends religious boundaries, urging individuals to strive in their actions without being driven by personal desires or ego. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda often cited the Bhagavad Gītā as a source of inspiration for service to humanity. Radhakrishnan, similarly, views this verse as a directive towards dynamic action, where one's deeds are guided by a sense of duty and responsibility towards the world. Both thinkers connect the practical application of this verse to contemporary life, advocating for a blend of spiritual growth and social service, where the pursuit of one's duties is seen as a path to self-realization and the betterment of the world.