The Doctrine of Karma Yoga - S Visvanathan

Spiritual progress and liberation necessarily call for transcending mind and its tendencies. Karma Yoga is no exception. This is however a difficult task as the Lord Himself observes in Bhagavad Gita Ch. VI. 35., "It is extremely difficult to control the ever-wandering mind, but it is possible through dispassion and continuous practice". Since Karma Yoga, as indeed any Yoga, calls for a major transition, practice over a period of time is absolutely essential.

Whenever the mind is motivated by its own "natural" tendencies and impels the aspirant towards actions, the aspirant should reflect with discrimination and dispassion. Not once or twice, but every time. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa says, "Viveka and Vairagya cannot be gained by the aspirant in a single day. Daily and protracted practice is necessary." He adds, "Devi Parvati Herself observed austerities and tapasya, seeking Her Lord. What to speak of us?".

Actions and their fruits are our offerings to God

However, the elevation of action from being motivated by the tendencies of oneself to a selfless expression impelled by a sense of duty represents a very large step. Such a large gap between what we do and what we should do is daunting and may leave the aspirant frustrated and dejected, despite repeated practice. Sri Krishna Himself recognizes this and observes in Bhagavad Gita Ch. XII-10 and Ch. XII-11, "If protracted practice is too difficult for you, do your work for My sake. If you are unable to do even that, renounce the fruits of actions".

© `dilip’ (Oct/Dec 2001) published by Colour Publications Pvt Ltd, 126A, Dhuruwadi, AV Nagvekar Marg, Prabhadevi, Mumbai 400 025. Reprinted with permission.

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