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Chapter 3 · Verse 21 · Karma Yoga

Bhagavad Gita 3.21

contemplative Karma & Action Dharma & Duty Self & Identity

Sanskrit

यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जनः। स यत्प्रमाणं कुरुते लोकस्तदनुवर्तते।।3.21।।

Transliteration

yad yad ācharati śhreṣhṭhas tat tad evetaro janaḥ sa yat pramāṇaṁ kurute lokas tad anuvartate

Word by Word

yat yat whatever
ācharati does
śhreṣhṭhaḥ the best
tat tat that (alone)
eva certainly
itaraḥ common
janaḥ people
saḥ they
yat whichever
pramāṇam standard
kurute perform
lokaḥ world
tat that
anuvartate pursues
Simplified Perspective

The luminous soul sets the standard for the world—not through proclamation, but through the integrity of their actions. When the wise and noble act with authenticity and dharma, ordinary hearts naturally follow their footsteps, as rivers flow toward the ocean.

This is the silent teaching that shapes civilization itself. In your own life, recognize that every action you take becomes a beacon; live with such conscious clarity that your presence alone elevates those around you.

Listen

Bhagavad Gita 3.21 — BG 3.21

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Sanskrit text from the Bhagavad Gita (public domain). Commentary © Mahakatha.

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