Responsibility — Lesson 15

Verse

Transliteration

yajña-dāna-tapaḥ-karma na tyājyaṁ kāryam eva tat
yajño dānaṁ tapaś caiva pāvanāni manīṣiṇām

Meaning

Acts of offering, giving, and discipline should not be given up. They must be performed. These actions purify the mind of those who reflect deeply.

Key Words

• yajña — offering, contribution
• dāna — giving, charity
• tapas — discipline
• na tyājyam — not to be given up
• pāvanāni — purifying

Teaching

Krishna now identifies certain essential actions. These are not optional. They are part of living a refined life. Offering (yajña) means contributing beyond oneself. Giving (dāna) reduces selfishness. Discipline (tapas) builds strength and clarity. These actions shape the mind. They prepare it for deeper understanding.

Connection to Responsibility

Responsibility includes self-development. It is not only about external roles, but also about inner growth. These practices refine the individual, making responsible action natural and steady.

Reflection

In my daily life, where do I contribute, give, and practice discipline? Are these consistent, or occasional?