The third chapter of the Bhagavad Gita is Karma Yoga or the Path of Selfless Service. Here Lord Krishna emphasizes the importance of karma in life. He reveals that it is important for every human being to engage in some sort of activity in this material world. Further, he describes the kinds of actions that lead to bondage and the kinds that lead to liberation. Those persons who continue to perform their respective duties externally for the pleasure of the Supreme, without attachment to its rewards get liberation at the end.
But, O Arjuna, one who engages in Karma-yoga with the organs of action, controlling the organs with the mind and becoming unattached-that one excels.
OPEN VERSEYou perform the obligatory duties, for action is superior to inaction. And, through inaction, even the maintenance of your body will not be possible.
OPEN VERSEThis man becomes bound by actions other than that action meant for God. Without being attached, O son of Kunti, you perform actions for Him.
OPEN VERSEIn the days of yore, having created the beings together with the sacrifices, Prajapati said: 'By this you multiply. Let this be your yielder of coveted objects of desire.'
OPEN VERSE'You nourish the gods with this. Let those gods nourish you. Nourishing one another, you shall attain the supreme Good.'
OPEN VERSE'Being nourished by sacrifices, the gods will indeed give you the coveted enjoyments. He is certainly a thief who enjoys what have been given by them without offering (these) to them.'
OPEN VERSE