BG Chap-4 Worksheet Bhakti Shastri Course Page 1 of

Bhagavad Gita – Chapter 4 – Transcendental Knowledge

Chapter Summary as given in the text book:

The yoga system instructed in this chapter is called sanätana-yoga, or eternal activities
performed by the living entity. This yoga has two divisions of sacrificial actions: one is called
sacrifice of one's material possessions, and the other is called knowledge of self, which is
pure spiritual activity. If sacrifice of one's material possessions is not dovetailed for spiritual
realization, then such sacrifice becomes material. But one who performs such sacrifices with
a spiritual objective, or in devotional service, makes a perfect sacrifice. When we come to
spiritual activities, we find that these are also divided into two: namely, understanding of
one's own self (or one's constitutional position), and the truth regarding the Supreme
Personality of Godhead. One who follows the path of the Gétä as it is can very easily
understand these two important divisions of spiritual knowledge. For him there is no
difficulty in obtaining perfect knowledge of the self as part and parcel of the Lord. And such
understanding is beneficial for such a person who easily understands the transcendental
activities of the Lord. In the beginning of this chapter, the transcendental activities of the
Lord were discussed by the Supreme Lord Himself. One who does not understand the
instructions of the Gétä is faithless, and is to be considered to be misusing the fragmental
independence awarded to him by the Lord. In spite of such instructions, one who does not
understand the real nature of the Lord as the eternal, blissful, all-knowing Personality of
Godhead, is certainly fool number one. Ignorance can be removed by gradual acceptance of
the principles of Kåñëa consciousness. Kåñëa consciousness is awakened by different types
of sacrifices to the demigods, sacrifice to Brahman, sacrifice in celibacy, in household life, in
controlling the senses, in practicing mystic yoga, in penance, in foregoing material
possessions, in studying the Vedas, and in partaking of the social institution called
varëäçrama-dharma. All of these are known as sacrifice, and all of them are based on
regulated action. But within all these activities, the important factor is self-realization. One
who seeks that objective is the real student of Bhagavad-gétä, but one who doubts the
authority of Kåñëa falls back. One is therefore advised to study Bhagavad-gétä, or any other
scripture, under a bona fide spiritual master, with service and surrender. A bona fide spiritual
master is in the disciplic succession from time eternal, and he does not deviate at all from the
instructions of the Supreme Lord as they were imparted millions of years ago to the sun-god,
from whom the instructions of Bhagavad-gétä have come down to the earthly kingdom. One
should, therefore, follow the path of Bhagavad-gétä as it is expressed in the Gétä itself and
beware of self-interested people after personal aggrandizement who deviate others from the
actual path. The Lord is definitely the supreme person, and His activities are transcendental.
One who understands this is a liberated person from the very beginning of his study of the
Gétä. (BG 4.42 Purport)
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Section wise chapter summary - The Fourth chapter of Bhagavad Gita has 42 verses which
can be divided into five sections as given below:

Section 1: Verses 1 to 10 – Krishna re-establishes the chain of disciplic succession

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The Lord instructed this imperishable science of Yoga to the sun god, Vivasvan. The sun god
instructed it to Manu. Manu instructed it to Ikshvaku. Thus the Bhagavad-gita was received
in the disciplic succession of saintly kings.
In due course of time the succession was broken and the science seemed to be lost. The Lord
retells the same instructions to Arjuna because Arjuna is His devotee and friend and can
therefore understand this science.
Arjuna enquires: The sun god is senior to Krishna by birth. How could Krishna have
instructed him?
Krishna explains that both He and Arjuna have passed many many births. He remembers all
of them but Arjuna has forgotten.
Although Krishna, being the Lord of all living entities and having a transcendental body, is
not subject to birth and death, He still appears in every millenium in His original
transcendental form.
Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religion and predominant rise of irreligion, He
descends to protect His devotees, annihilate the demons and to re-establish the principles of
religion.
The process of liberation by Krishna consciousness: One who understands the truth of the
appearance and activities of Krishna upon leaving his body attains liberation and returns to
Krishna.
By being fully absorbed in Krishna and taking refuge in Him, many devotees in the past were
freed from attachment, fear and anger and attained pure love for Krishna.

Section 2: Verses 11 to 15 – Liberation by working in divine consciousness

Krishna is the object of everyone’s realisation. As they surrender to Him, He rewards
accordingly; everyone is dependent on His mercy for success.
Those who desire success in fruitive activities worship demigods. From fruitive work, results
are quickly achieved in this world.
Krishna is always aloof from material actions and reactions. One who acts under His orders
attains liberation.
Krishna is the creator of the four divisions of human society according to the modes of
material nature and the work associated with them. But He is transcendental to this system
becaise He is eternal and above material activity.
Krishna is not affected by any kind of work. Neither is He attracted by the fruits of actions.
One who knows Him as such also does not get entangled in fruitive work.
All the liberated sold have attained association of Krishna by engaging in devotional service.
Like them, Arjuna should also act according to Krishna’s will.

Section 3: Verses 16 to 24 – Symptoms of a person in full knowledge of action

Even the intelligent are bewildered about the standard of actions. Therefore Krishna Himself
explains action that will free Arjuna from all misfortune.
One has to understand the distinction between proper action (karma), unauthorised action
(vikarma) and inaction (akarma). Altough engaged in all sorts of work for Krishna, a devotee
does not enjoy or suffer the effects of work. Consequently he is the most intelligent and is
transcendental.
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By perfect knowledge of his constitutional position as the eternal servant of the Lord, a
devotee is devoid of any desire for sense gratification. He has burnt up all reactions of his
works by his perfect knowledge.
Out of pure love for Krishna, he has no attraction for the results of his actions, though he does
everything for Krishna.
Because he knows that he is acting as a part and parcel of Krishna, he maintains himself by
his work only to remain fit for devotional service. He is thus immune to sinful reactions.
Satisfied with gains that come of their own accord, free from duality and envy, a devotee who
acts only for the satisfaction of Krishna in both success and failure does not become bound,
no matter what he does for Krishna.
Because of knowing his constitutional position in relation with Krishna, the devotee is free
from the three modes of material nature. His activities become sacrifices to Krishna and the
resultant reactions merge into transcendence.

Section 4: Verses 25 to 33 – Types of sacrifices approved by the Vedas

Some perform sacrifices to demigods and others to the impersonal feature of the Supreme
Lord.
The brahmacharis control the mind by hearing only about Krishna consciousness and thus
abstain from sense gratification.
The regulated householders sacrifice their tendency for sense gratification for higher
transcendental life.
The yogis offer the function of the air in the body by mind control as sacrifice for purifying
the soul of material attachment.
In this way some sacrifice their possessions, others accept austerities, some others perform
mystic yoga, and yet others study Vedic literature for enlightenment.
Some perform pranayama and control the breathing process, while others control the eating
as sacrifice.
All these sacrifices help one to become cleansed of material existence and advance towards
the supreme eternal atmosphere. Without sacrifice one cannot be happy in this life, what to
speak of the next.
These sacrifices are mentioned in the Vedas to suit different types of workers. Ultimately the
aim is liberation from the body.
The sacrifice performed in knowledge are better than mere sacrifice of material possessions.
The purpose of all sacrifices is to know one’s relationship with the Supreme Lord and to
engage in loving transcendental service to Him.

Section 5: Verses 34 to 42 – Transcendental Knowledge

The Lord advises that one must approach a self-realised soul, serve him submissively and
make enquiries. Because he has seen the truth, he can give a clear understanding that all
living beings are part and parcel of Krishna. Once one understands this, he will not be
deluded again by the bodily differences that arises from forgetfulness of the transcendental
service of the Supreme Lord Sri Krishna.
Even if one is the greatest sinner, one can cross the ocean of nescience by proper
understanding of one’s constitutional position in reltionship with Krishna. Such knowledge of
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the self, Superself and their relationship, like fire, will burn the reactions of all material
activities to ashes.
There is nothing so sublime and pure as this knowledge which is the mature fruit of
devotional service. A devotee who is situated in this knowledge enjoys peace within himself
which culminates in Krishna consciousness. With full faith in Krishna, one can achieve such
knowledge by engaging his senses in Krishna’s service. Very soon he will attain perfect
Krishna consciousness, the supreme spiritual peace.
Ignorant and faithless persons who doubt the revealed scriptures do not attain God
consciousness. They fall down. For the doubting soul there is happiness neither in this world
nor in the next.
One who acts in devotional service only for the satisfaction of Krishna becomes free from all
doubts by the grace of transcendental knowledge. By understanding his constitutional
position as the eternal servant of Krishna, he is situated factually in the self. Therefore he is
certainly above bondage to action.
Krishna advises Arjuna to slash the doubts in his heart with the weapon of knowledge. Armed
with yoga, Arjuna should stand up and fight.
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Assignment:
1. [BG 4.1 verse] Write the names of four members of the rajarshi parampara described in BG
4.1.
Krishna, Vivasvan(the sun god), Manu (Vaivasvata), Ikshvaku.
2. [BG 4.1 ppt] What is the need for this science of yoga to be delivered to the royal order?
This science is especially meant for protection of the inhabitants and the royal order should
understand it in order to be able to rule the citizens and protect them from material bondage
to lust.
3. [BG 4.1 ppt] Since the Vedic instructions are accepted as they are, without human
interpretation, the Gétä must therefore be accepted without mundane interpretation.
4. [BG 4.2 ppt] How was the disciplic succession broken five thousand years back, during the
advent of Lord Krishna?
As soon as the original purpose was scattered by the motives of the unscrupulous
commentators, there arose the need to reestablish the disciplic succession.
5. [BG 4.2 ppt] What is the main defect of innumerable interpretations of the Bhagavad Gita
rendered by mundane scholars?
They do not accept the Supreme Personality of Godhead Krishna.
6. [BG 4.1 ppt] In this millennium, the sun-god or the king of the sun planet is is known as
Vivasvän.
7. [BG 4.1 ppt] Bhagavad-gétä existed on the earth planet in the human society from the time of
Mahäräja Ikñväku.
8. [BG 4.3 verse] What is Arjuna’s qualification to understand the mystery of the Bhagavad
Gita?
Arjuna is a devotee and a friend of Lord Krishna.
9. [BG 4.4 ppt] Arjuna was aware of Krishna’s position as the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Yet why is he inquiring from Krishna about Krishna’s position?
He is inquiring for those who do not believe in the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
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10. [BG 4.4 ppt] How is atheistic attitude described in BG 4.4?

Persons who consider Krishna to be an ordinary human being subject to the modes of
material nature are described as having an atheistic attitude.
11. [BG 4.5 ppt] Even though Arjuna is a constant companion of the Lord, why does he not
remember his previous births?
Because he changes his body.
12. [BG 4.5 ppt] What is the difference between Krishna and a conditioned soul as regards both
being spirit?
Everything in relation to Krishna is spirit, whereas the conditioned soul is different from his
material body.
13. [BG 4.6 verse] Even though the Supreme Lord Krishna appears to take birth like an ordinary
living entity, what three special characteristics of His are described in BG 4.6?
He is unborn. His transcendental body never deteriorates. He is the Lord of all sentient
beings.
14. [BG 4.6 ppt] In BG 4.6, the word prakåti has not been used in the sense of nature. What is the
particular meaning in this verse?
It means svarupa or own form.
15. [BG 4.6 ppt] In the Bhägavatam, Lord Krishna appears before His mother as Näräyaëa, with
four hands and the decorations of the six kinds of full opulences.
16. [BG 4.6 ppt] In BG 4.6 avyaya atma means Krishna’s body and intelligence do not
deteriorate.
17. [BG 4.6 ppt] According to the Viçvakoça dictionary, Krishna’s appearance in His original
eternal form is His causeless mercy.
18. [BG 4.7 verse] According to BG 4.7, under what two conditions does the Lord descend
Himself?
Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, and a predominant rise of
irreligion.
19. [BG 4.7 ppt] Although Lord Krishna is not obliged to appear on schedule, when does He
appear in a day of Brahma?
At the end of Dväpara-yuga of the twenty-eighth millennium of the seventh Manu, in one day
of Brahmä.
20. [BG 4.7 ppt] In the end of the Gita, what is described as the highest principle of religion?
To surrender unto Lord Krishna only.
21. [BG 4.7 ppt] The Vedas are also accepted as originally spoken by Lord Krishna to Brahmä,
from within his heart.
22. [BG 4.7 ppt] In each and every incarnation, the Supreme Lord speaks as much about religion
as can be understood by the particular people under their particular circumstances.
23. [BG 4.7 ppt] Even though it appears that the Lord speaks differently in each incarnation,
what is the common mission of the Lord?
To lead people to God consciousness and obedience to the principles of religion.
24. [BG 4.7 ppt] Even though Lord Buddha is an incarnation of Krishna, why did he reject the
Vedas?
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Materialists were using the pretext of the authority of the Vedas and were killing animals
without following the restrictions given in the Vedas. Lord Buddha appeared to stop this
nonsense.
25. [BG 4.8 verse] According to BG 4.8, what are the three purposes for which Lord Krishna
appears Himself in every millenium?
To deliver the pious, to annihilate the miscreants and to reestablish the principles of religion.
26. [BG 4.8 ppt] According to Bhagavad-gétä, a sädhu is a man in Kåñëa consciousness.
27. [BG 4.8 ppt] When Lord Krishna appeared, He simultaneously delivered Devaki and killed
Kamsa. But which of these two activities is primary? Why?
Delivering Devaki is the Lord’s primary activity. Because the Lord need not personally
appear to kill the demons, as His agents are quite competent to kill the demons.
28. [BG 4.8 ppt] What are the six kinds of avataras described in BG 4.8?
1. Puruñävatäras
2. Guëävatäras
3. Lélävatäras
4. çaktyäveça avatäras
5. manvantara-avatäras
6. yugävatäras
29. [BG 4.8 ppt] Give three examples of each of the six kinds of avataras.
1. Käraëodakaçäyé Viñëu, Garbhodakaçäyé Viñëu and Kñérodakaçäyé Viñëu.
2. Brahmä, Viñëu and Çiva.
3. Matsya, Kürma and Varäha.
4. Kumaras, Narada and Prithu.
5. Yajna, Ajita and Vamana.
6. The incarnations of each yuga are of different colours. The colours are white, red,
black and yellow.
30. [BG 4.8 ppt] What is the prime purpose of the Krishna avatara?
The prime purpose of the Kåñëa avatära is to satisfy His unalloyed devotees.
31. [BG 4.9 ppt] What is the factual meaning of tattvamasi?
It applies to the Supreme Lord and it means "You are the same Supreme Brahman, the
Personality of Godhead".
32. [BG 4.9 ppt] What happens to a person who properly understands tattvamasi?
He is certainly liberated instantly and consequently his entrance into the transcendental
association of the Lord is guaranteed.
33. [BG 4.9 ppt] What is the risk of the impersonalists’ liberation?
They run the risk of returning again to this material world.
34. [BG 4.9 ppt] According to BG 4.9, “Simply by accepting this truth on faith, one can, without
a doubt, attain liberation.” What is this truth?
The one Supreme Personality of Godhead is eternally engaged in many, many transcendental
forms in relationships with His unalloyed devotees.
35. [BG 4.10 ppt] As explained in BG 4.10, what are the three stages of attachment to the
material world?
i) Negligence of spiritual life,
ii) fear of a spiritual personal identity, and
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iii) the conception of void that underlies the frustration of life.

36. [BG 4.10 ppt] What is the specific reason for each of the above mentioned attachments?
People who are attached to the bodily conception of life, are too absorbed in materialism.
Therefore they neglect spiritual life.
For those who consider the Supreme to be impersonal, the conception of retaining the
personality after liberation from matter frightens them.
Those who are embarassed by so many theories and contradictions become disgusted or
angry and conclude that everything is ultimately void.
37. [BG 4.10 ppt] What is recommended in BG 4.10 to get free from the three stages of material
concept of of life?
One has to take complete shelter of the Lord, guided by the bona fide spiritual master, and
follow the disciplines and regulative principles of devotional life.
38. [BG 4.11 ppt] How is Krishna realised by the impersonalists?
As brahmajyoti effulgence.
39. [BG 4.11 ppt] How are fruitive workers dependent for success on Krishna?
The Lord awards the desired results of their prescribed duties, as the yajïeçvara.
40. [BG 4.11 ppt] How are yogis dependent for success on Krishna?
The yogis seeking mystic powers are awarded such powers by Krishna only.
41. [BG 4.11 ppt] In what various ways does Krishna reciprocate with His pure devotees?
Krishna reciprocates according to their different intensities of love for Him. Some may want
Him as supreme master or as a personal friend or as a son or as a lover.
42. [BG 4.11 ppt] Everyone is dependant for success upon Krishna’s mercy alone, and all kinds
of spiritual processes are but different degrees of success on the same path.
43. [BG 4.12 ppt] Who is a päñaëòé?
Anyone who thinks that God and the demigods are on the same level is called an atheist, or
päñaëòé.
44. [BG 4.12 ppt] What is anthropomorphism?
It means to attribute human characteristics to God.
45. [BG 4.12 ppt] What is zoomorphism?
It means to attribute animal characteristics to God.
46. [BG 4.12 ppt] According to BG 4.12, why do people worship demigods?
To attain success in fruitive activities.
47. [BG 4.12 ppt] What is the particular characteristic of success obtained through fruitive work?
They get results quickly.
48. [BG 4.13 verse] What is the basis for Krishna to create four divisions of human society?
According to the three modes of material nature and the work ascribed to each of them.
49. [BG 4.13 ppt] The present day degraged caste system is based on an anamoly which is not
according to the description given in BG 4.13. What is the anamoly?
Division of human society into caste based on birth is the anamoly.
50. [BG 4.13 ppt] Why is it said that Krishna does not belong to any division even though He is
the creator of this system?
Because Krishna is not one of the conditioned souls.
51. [BG 4.13 ppt] Brahmanas are situated in the mode of goodness.
52. [BG 4.13 ppt] Kshatriyas are situated in the mode of passion.
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53. [BG 4.13 ppt] Vaishyas are sitated in the mode of passion and ignorance.
54. [BG 4.13 ppt] Shudras are situated in the mode of ignorance.
55. [BG 4.13 ppt] The tendency of a particular man toward work is determined by the modes of
material nature which he has acquired.
56. [BG 4.14 verse] There is no work that affects Krishna. Nor does He aspire for the fruits of
action. What happens to one who understands this truth about Krishna?
Such a person does not become entangled in the fruitive reactions of work.
57. [BG 4.15 verse] Who are the ancients described in translation of BG 4.15?
The Lord’s previous disciples such as the sun-god are described as ancients.
58. [BG 4.15 ppt] There are two classes of men. Some of them are full of polluted material things
within their hearts, and some of them are materially free. How is Kåñëa consciousness
equally beneficial for both of these classes of men?
Those who are full of dirty things can take to the line of Kåñëa consciousness for becoming
cleansed.
Those who are already cleansed of the impurities may continue to act in the same Kåñëa
consciousness so that others may follow their exemplary activities and thereby be benefitted.
59. [BG 4.15 ppt] To retire from the activities of Kåñëa consciousness and to sit aloof making a
show of Kåñëa consciousness is less important than actually engaging in the field of activities
for the sake of Kåñëa.
60. [BG 4.15 verse] All such students of Lord Kåñëa are mentioned here (in this verse BG 4.15)
as past liberated persons, engaged in the discharge of duties allotted by Kåñëa. What is the
part of the Sanskrit verse which means “past liberated persons”?
pürvair api mumukñubhiù
61. [BG 4.16 verse] According to BG 4.16, what is the result of knowing what is action and what
is inaction?
One can be liberated from all sins.
62. Additional Notes:
Srila Prabhupada explains in purport to BG 4.16: By mental speculation one cannot ascertain
what is religion or self-realization. Therefore, out of causeless mercy to His devotees, the
Lord explains directly to Arjuna what action is and what inaction is. Only action performed in
Kåñëa consciousness can deliver a person from the entanglement of material existence.
Srila Prabhupada explains the difference between mental speculation and philosophical
speculation in a letter to Chaturbhus dated 72-01-21:
As for the difference between mental speculation and philosophical speculation, we take it
that everything is known by the psychological action of the mind, so that philosophical
speculation is the same as mental speculation if it is merely the random or haphazard activity
of the brain to understand everything and making theories, "if's" and "maybe's." But if
philosophical speculation is directed by Sastra and Guru, and if the goal of such philosophical
attempts is to achieve Visnu, then that philosophical speculation is not mental speculation.
It is just like this: Krishna says in Bhagavad-gita that "I am the taste of water." Philosophical
speculation in the accepted sense then means to try to understand, under the direction of
Sastra and Guru, just how Krishna is the taste of water. The points of Bhagavad-gita, though
they are simple and complete, can be understood from unlimited angles of vision. So our
philosophy is not dry, like mental speculation. The proper function of the brain or
psychological activity is to understand everything through Krishna's perspective or point-of-
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view, and so there is no limit to that understanding because Krishna is unlimited, and even
though it can be said that the devotee who knows Krishna, knows everything (15th Chapter),
still, the philosophical process never stops and the devotee continues to increase his
knowledge even though he knows everything.
63. [BG 4.17 verse] According to BG 4.17, the intricacies of action are very hard to understand.
Therefore one should know properly the following three: (write the English and the Sanskrit
in the blanks)
What is action karma
What is forbidden action vikarma
What is inaction akarma.
64. [BG 4.17 ppt] To understand Kåñëa consciousness and action according to the modes, one
has to learn one's relationship with the Supreme. What is this relationship? What is the result
of understanding this relationship?
Every living entity is the eternal servitor of the Lord.
As a result of understanding this relationship one has to act in Krishna consciousness.
65. [BG 4.18 ppt] Give an example of inaction in action.
Inaction or akarma means without reaction to work. All activities in Krishna consciousness
are without reactions. They are all akarma. A devotee who acts in Krisna consciousness, even
though performing actions, is without reaction. If a devotee eats prasadam there is no reaction
to such action of eating.
66. [BG 2.33 verse] Give an example of action in inaction.
In BG 2.33, Krishna tells Arjuna that by not fighting the religious war, Arjuna will incur sins
for neglecting his duties. Even though Arjuna may not be performing the action of fighting,
he will still incur reactions as if he is doing fruitive action. This is an example of action in
inaction.
67. [BG 4.19 ppt] In BG 4.19 it is said that by the fire of perfect knowledge, one can burn up all
reactions to one’s activities. What is this perfect knowledge?
Knowledge of one’s constitutional position as the eternal servitor of the Supreme Personality
of Godhead.
68. [BG 4.19 ppt] According to BG 4.19, who is understood to be in full knowledge?
One whose every act is devoid of the desire for sense gratification.
69. [BG 4.20 verse] According to BG 4.20, what are the three characteristics of a person who
performs no fruitive action even though engaged in all kinds of undertakings?
1. He gives up all attachment to the results of his activities.
2. He is ever satisfied.
3. He is independent.
70. [BG 4.21 verse] In BG 4.21, what is the meaning of çäréraà?
It means for the bare necessities of life or for keeping body and soul together.
Note: “Keeping body and soul together” is an idiomatic expression which means “bare
necessities of life”.
71. [BG 4.21 ppt] In BG 4.21, it is mentioned that a Krishna conscious person knows that the part
played by him is not by his choice but is chosen for him by the Supreme. What is the example
given by Srila Prabhupada to illustrate this?
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When the hand moves, it does not move out of its own accord, but by the endeavor of the
whole body.
72. [BG 4.21 ppt] In BG 4.21, it is mentioned that a Krishna conscious person has no
proprietorship even over his own body. What is the example given by Srila Prabhupada to
illustrate this?
A cruel proprietor of an animal sometimes kills the animal in his possession, yet the animal
does not protest. Nor does it have any real independence.
73. [BG 4.19, 4.20, 4.21 and 4.22 verses] List all the characteristics of a person acting in
knowledge from verses BG 4.19, 4.20, 4.21 and 4.22.
1. His every act is devoid of the desire for sense gratification.
2. He abandons all attachment to the results of his activities.
3. He is ever satisfied.
4. He is independent.
5. He acts with mind and intelligence perfectly controlled.
6. He gives up all sense of proprietorship over his possessions.
7. He acts only for the bare necessities of life.
8. He is satisfied with gain which comes of its own accord.
9. He is free from duality.
10. He does not envy anyone.
11. He is steady both in success and failure.
74. [BG 4.22 ppt] The duality of the material world is felt in terms of heat and cold, or misery
and happiness.
75. [BG 4.22 ppt] A Kåñëa conscious person is above duality because he does not hesitate to act
in any way for the satisfaction of Kåñëa.
76. [BG 4.23 ppt] Whatever work a Krishna conscious person does, is technically a sacrifice.
Why?
Because sacrifice involves satisfying the Supreme Person, Krishna and everything done by a
Krishna conscious person is for the satsifaction of the Supreme Lord Krishna.
77. [BG 4.24 ppt] Using the example of curing bowel disorder, explain the principle of Krishna
consciousness as described in the purport to BG 4.24.
A patient who is suffering from a disorder of the bowels due to overindulgence in milk
products is cured by another milk product, namely curds. The materially absorbed
conditioned soul can be cured by Kåñëa consciousness ie. by performing all activities simply
for the satisfaction of Kåñëa.
78. [BG 4.24 ppt] The Lord is spiritual, and His spiritual effulgence which are the rays of His
transcendental body are called brahmajyoti.
79. [BG 4.24 ppt] When the jyoti is covered by illusion (mäyä) or sense gratification, it is called
material.
80. [BG 4.24 ppt] The Absolute Truth covered by mäyä is called matter.
81. [BG 4.24 ppt] Matter dovetailed for the cause of the Absolute Truth regains its spiritual
quality.
82. [BG 4.24 ppt] When the mind is fully absorbed in Kåñëa consciousness, it is said to be in
samädhi.
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83. [BG 4.25 ppt] All the different varieties of sacrifice can be placed within two primary
divisions: namely, sacrifice of worldly possessions and sacrifice in pursuit of transcendental
knowledge.
84. [BG 4.25 ppt] Those who are in Kåñëa consciousness sacrifice all material possessions for
the satisfaction of the Supreme Lord, while others, who want some temporary material
happiness, sacrifice their material possessions to satisfy demigods.
85. [BG 4.25 ppt] Who are called bahv-éçvara-vädé? What type of sacrifice do they perform?
What is the purpose of their sacrifice?
They are believers in many gods. They worship the demigods by various sacrifices according
to the Vedic rituals. They are interested in material benefits.
86. [BG 4.25 ppt] The impersonalists offer sacrifices in the fire of Supreme Brahman.
87. [BG 4.26 verse] The brahmacharis sacrifice the hearing process and the senses in the fire of
the controlled mind.
88. [BG 4.26 verse] The householders sacrifice the objects of senses in the fire of the senses.
89. [BG 4.26 ppt] How is restricted, unattached sex life a kind of yajïa?
The restricted householder sacrifices his general tendency toward sense gratification for
higher transcendental life.
90. [BG 4.27 ppt] According to the Yoga-sütra of Pataïjali, the soul is called pratyag-ätmä and
paräg-ätmä. Under what condition can the soul be called pratyag-ätmä and paräg-ätmä?
When the soul is attached to sense enjoyment it is called paräg-ätmä.
When the soul is withdrawn from activities in matter it is called pratyag-ätmä.
91. [BG 4.27 ppt] What is the ultimate goal of the Pantanjali system of yoga in which one is
taught to control the functions of the body’s air in a technical manner?
The goal is to make the functions of the air within, favourable for purifying the soul of
material attachment.
92. [BG 4.27 ppt] The senses interact with the sense objects, like the ear for hearing, eyes for
seeing, nose for smelling, tongue for tasting, hand for touching, and all of them are thus
engaged in activities outside the self.
93. [BG 4.27 ppt] The apäna-väyu goes downwards, vyäna-väyu acts to shrink and expand,
samäna-väyu adjusts equilibrium, udäna-väyu goes upwards.
94. [BG 4.28 ppt] Distributing food, education and medical treatment free to the poor, is a kind
of yajna called dravya yajïa.
95. [BG 4.28 ppt] Observing severe austerities like cäturmäsya vrata is another kind of sacrifice
called tapo yajna.
96. [BG 4.28 ppt] Engaging in the Patanjali system of sacrifice is called yoga yajna.
97. [BG 4.28 ppt] Those who engage in studies of Vedic literatures like Upanishads and
Vedanta-sutras are said to be performing svädhyäya yajïa.
98. [BG 4.28 verse, ppt] From the above four examples, we can state that the four types of yajnas
mentioned in BG 4.28 are dravya yajna, tapo yajna, yoga yajna and svadhyaya yajna.
99. [BG 4.28 ppt] Krishna consciousness is different from all the above mentioned four types of
yajnas because it is direct service of the Supreme Lord and therefore it is transcendental.
100. [BG Intro] Devotees always perform yajïas in different modes of devotional service,
such as çravaëam, kértanam, smaraëam, päda-sevanam, arcanam, vandanam, däsyam,
sakhyam, ätma-nivedanam.
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101. [BG 4.29 ppt] The pranayama yogi practices controlling the breathing process.
102. [BG 4.29 ppt] As described in BG 4.29, what is puraka, recaka and kumbhaka?
The apäna air goes downward, and the präëa air goes up. When the pranayama yogi practices
breathing the opposite way until the currents are neutralized into equilibrium, it is called
puraka.
When the exhaled breathing is offered to inhaled breathing, it is called recaka.
When both air currents are completely stopped, it is called kumbhaka.
103. [BG 4.29 ppt] Some of the yogis, curtailing the eating process, offer the outgoing
breath into itself, as a sacrifice.
104. [BG 4.29 ppt] As explained in BG 4.29, how does a devotee practise reduced eating?
A devotee eats only Kåñëa prasädam, or food which is offered first to the Lord and in this
way he practices reduced eating.
105. [BG 4.29 ppt] All of these breathing processes are recommended for controlling the
senses and for advancement in spiritual realization.
106. [BG 4.30 verse] All these performers who know the meaning of sacrifice become
cleansed of sinful reaction, and, having tasted the nectar of the remnants of such sacrifice,
they go to the supreme eternal atmosphere.
107. [BG 4.30 ppt] From the explanation of differents types of sacrifice, it is found that the
common aim of all is to control the senses.
108. [BG 4.30 ppt] Unless and until one is situated on a platform apart from sense
gratification, there is no chance of being elevated to the eternal platform of full knowledge,
full bliss and full life.
109. [BG 4.31 verse] According to BG 4.31, without sacrifice one can never live happily
on this planet or in this life.
110. [BG 4.31 ppt] Ignorance is the cause of sinful life, and sinful life is the cause of one's
dragging on in material existence.
111. [BG 4.31 ppt] The human form of life is the only loophole by which one may
get out of this material entanglement.
112. [BG 4.31 ppt] The Vedas give us a chance for escape by pointing out the paths of
religion or dharma, economic comfort or artha, regulated sense gratification or käma and, at
last, the means to get out of the miserable condition entirely or mokña.
113. [BG 4.32 verse] All these different types of sacrifice are approved by the
Vedas, and all of them are born of different types of work.
114. [BG 4.32 ppt] Because men are so deeply absorbed in the bodily concept, these
sacrifices are so arranged that one can work either with the body, the mind, or the
intelligence.
115. [BG 4.32 ppt] All of the sacrifices are recommended for ultimately bringing about
liberation from the body.
116. [BG 4.33 verse] The sacrifice of knowledge is greater than the sacrifice of material
possessions.
117. [BG 4.33 ppt] The purpose of all sacrifices is:
i) to arrive at the status of complete knowledge,
ii) then to gain release from material miseries,
iii) ultimately to engage in loving transcendental service to the Supreme Lord.
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118. [BG 4.33 ppt] What is the defect of sacrifice of material possessions performed
without transcendental knowledge?
Such sacrifices remain on the material platform and bestow no spiritual benefit to the
performer.
119. [BG 4.33 ppt] What is the highest stage of transcendental knowledge?
Krishna consciousness is the highest stage of transcendental knowledge.
120. [BG 4.33 ppt] Depending on differences in consciousness, sacrificial activities are
sometimes called karma käëòa and sometimes called jïäna käëòa. Of the two jïäna käëòa is
better.
121. [BG 4.34 ppt] The path of spiritual realization is undoubtedly difficult. The Lord
therefore advises us to get a clear understanding from the bonafide spiritual master by
submission, service and inquiries.
122. [BG 4.34 ppt] The Lord is the original spiritual master, and a person in the disciplic
succession from the Lord can convey the message of the Lord as it is to his disciple.
123. [BG 4.34 ppt] Without submission and service, inquiries from the learned spiritual
master will not be effective.
124. Additional Notes:
In this verse (BG 4.34), both blind following and absurd inquiries are condemned. To
illustrate the foolishness of becoming a blind follower, Prabhupäda told a story about the
death of Sargal Singh. Sargal Singh was very much loved by a merchant, so when Sargal
Singh died, the man shaved his head and wore dark clothes. When another man came into the
merchant’s shop, he asked who had died. “Sargal Singh has died,” said the merchant. The
visitor did not want to seem ignorant, so he did not ask who Sargal Singh was, but he also
shaved his head and wore dark clothes. Other people in town began to follow, not wanting to
appear ignorant. When anyone asked who had died, they replied, “Sargal Singh has died.”
When a minister of the king saw so many citizens in mourning he also wore dark clothes and
shaved his head, but when the king saw this, he inquired, “Why are you mourning and for
whom?” “Sargal Singh,” the minister replied. The king asked, “Who is that?” When the
minister couldn’t answer the king told him to find out. The minister then inquired and
inquired and finally reached the merchant. “Who is Sargal Singh?” The merchant replied,
“Sargal Singh was my donkey, whom I loved very much.”
125. [BG 4.35 verse] The truth which we can receive from a bonafide spiritual master is
that all living beings are:
i) Part of Krishna
ii) They are in Krishna
iii) They are Krishna’s.
126. [BG 4.35 ppt] What is the result of knowing the truth?
By knowing the truth, one will never again fall into illusion.
127. [BG 4.35 ppt] The sense of a separated existence from Kåñëa is called mäyä.
128. [BG 4.35 ppt] In the Brahma-saàhitä it is clearly stated that Kåñëa is the Supreme
Personality of Godhead, the cause of all causes. The millions of incarnations and the living
entities are Krishna’s expansions only.
129. [BG 4.35 ppt] In the material world, a thing when fragmentally distributed loses its
own original identity but in the spiritual world, one plus one is equal to one, and one minus
 BG Chap-4 Worksheet Bhakti Shastri Course Page 14 of

one is equal to one. This means Krishna does not lose His own separate existence in His
many expansions.
130. [Éço Invocation] In the spiritual world, one minus one is equal to one. This is
described in the Ishopanishad as pürëasya pürëam ädäya pürëam evävaçiñyate.
131. [BG 4.35 ppt] The whole teaching of the Gétä is targetted toward one
particular understanding. What is that?
A living being, as Krishna’s eternal servitor, cannot be separated from Krishna, and his sense
of being an identity apart from Krishna is called mäyä.
132. [BG 4.35 ppt] The living entities, as separate parts and parcels of the Supreme, have a
purpose to fulfill. Having forgotten that purpose, since time immemorial they are situated in
different bodies. How can one get out of this illusion of bodily differences?
By engaging in transcendental service through Krishna consciousness.
133. [BG 4.35 ppt] According to Srimad Bhagavatam, what is liberation?
Liberation means to be situated in one's constitutional position as the eternal servitor of
Krishna.
134. [BG 4.36 verse] Even the most sinful man can cross over the ocean of miseries simply
by being situated in the boat of transcendental knowledge.
135. [BG 4.37 ppt] There are four stages of reactions. They are:
i) reaction in the making
ii) reaction fructifying
iii) reaction already achieved
iv) reaction a priori.
136. [BG 4.37 ppt] All the stages of reactions can be burned to ashes by perfect knowledge
of:
i) self
ii) Superself
iii) Their relationship.
137. [BG 4.38 verse] Transcendental knowledge is the mature fruit of all mysticism.
138. [BG 4.38 ppt] Ignorance is the cause of our bondage, and knowledge is the cause of
our liberation.
139. When one is situated in transcendental knowledge, he need not search for peace
elsewhere. Why?
Because he enjoys peace within himself.
140. [BG 4.38 ppt] A faithful man who is absorbed in transcendental knowledge and who
subdues his senses quickly attains the supreme spiritual peace.
141. [BG 4.39 verse] As explained in BG 4.39, who is called a faithful man?
One who thinks that, simply by acting in Kåñëa consciousness, he can attain the highest
perfection.
142. [BG 4.39 ppt] This faith is attained by discharge of devotional service, and by
chanting Hare Krishna.
143. [BG 4.40 ppt] In BG 4.40, three kinds of faithless persons are described. Who are
they?
i) Those have no faith in, or knowledge of, the standard revealed scriptures.
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ii) Some, even though they have knowledge of, or can cite passages from, the
revealed scriptures, have actually no faith in these words.
iii) Even though others may have faith in scriptures like Bhagavad-gétä, they do not
believe in or worship the Personality of Godhead, Çré Kåñëa.
144. [BG 4.41 verse] In BG 4.41, what three conditions are laid down for freedom from
bondage to work?
i) Renounce the fruits of action
ii) Become free from doubts by transcendental knowledge
iii) Become situated firmly in the self.
145. [BG 4.42 ppt] Kåñëa consciousness is awakened by different types of sacrifices
i) to the demigods
ii) to Brahman
iii) in celibacy
iv) in household life
v) in controlling the senses
vi) in practicing mystic yoga
vii) in penance
viii) in foregoing material possessions
ix) in studying the Vedas
x) in partaking of the social institution called varëäçrama-dharma.
146. [BG 4.42 ppt] All of the above are known as sacrifice, and all of them are based on
regulated action. But within all these activities, the important factor is self-realization.
147. [BG 4.24 verse] Match the following:
brahmärpaëaà e a. offering is of the same spiritual nature
brahma havir a b. fully absorbed in Kåñëa consciousness
brahmägnau f c. offered by the spirit soul
brahmaëä hutam c d. sure to attain the spiritual kingdom
brahmaiva tena gantavyaà d e. full contribution to spiritual activities
brahma-karma-samädhinä b f. consummation is absolute
148. [BG 4.10 ppt] Arrange in correct order:
a. bhajana-kriyä
b. ruciù
c. niñöhä
d. äsaktiù
e. çraddhä
f. bhäva
g. sädhu-saìga
h. premä
i. anartha-nivåttiù
e g a i c b d f h
149. [BG 4.4, 4.5 verses] What is the only question Arjuna asks in this chapter? What is
Krishna’s immediate answer?
Q) The sun-god is senior by birth to Krishna. How can Arjuna understand that in the
beginning Krishna instructed the science of yoga to the sun-god.
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A) Many many births both Arjuna and Krishna have passed. Krishna remembers all of them
but Arjuna cannot.
150. [BG 4.1, 4.5, 4.6, 4.9, 4.10, 4.11, 4.12, 4.14 ppt] Select the correct answer for each of
the following:
a. Thus, some 2,005,000 years ago, Manu spoke the Bhagavad-gétä to his disciple and
son Mahäräja lkñväku. (2,05,000 2,005,000 20,005,000 200,005,000)
b. Lord Krishna spoke the Gita to sun-god about 120,400,000 years ago.
(120,400,000 12,400,000 1,200,400,000 102,400,000)
c. Being spoken by the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Bhagavad-gétä is as good as
the Vedas. Therefore it is called as apauruñeya. (avyakta, apauruñeya, aprameya,
anirdesya)
d. Lord Krishna is advaita, which means there is no distinction between His body and
self. (body and self, soul and supersoul, body and jiva, hands and legs)
e. The Vedas also confirm that the Supreme Personality of Godhead is unborn, yet He
still appears to take His birth. (unmanifest, spirit, unborn, kshara)
f. The liberation achieved by the impersonalists of merging into the impersonal
brahmajyoti of the Lord is only partial. (complete, illusory, material, partial)
g. One has to get rid of all three stages of attachment to the material world: negligence
of spiritual life, fear of a spiritual personal identity, and the conception of void. (body,
impersonal, void, demigod)
h. In the material creations, the Lord is the supreme cause but material nature is the
immediate cause. (living entity, material nature, supersoul, spiritual nature)
i. Everyone is searching for Kåñëa in the different aspects of His manifestations.
(peace, truth, Kåñëa, happiness)
j. Actually, the demigods are not different forms of God, but they are God's different
parts and parcels. (hands, eyes, parts and parcels, legs)
151. [BG 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.9, 4.10, 4.14, 4.24, 4.36, 4.37 ppt] Explain the context in which
each of the following analogies are used in the text book. Each answer should be brief and
limited to three sentences.
a. Vaidurya stone
Even though the vaidurya stone changes colour yet it still remains one. Similarly the
Lord, although one without a second, manifests Himself in innumerable forms.
b. Sunrise and sunset
Even though the sun is always in its fixed position, it appears to rise, move and set.
Similarly, although the Lord is changeless in His transcendental body and
intelligence, He appears to take birth, grow and disappear like an ordinary person.
c. Two plus two is equal to four
Two plus two equals four is a mathematical principle that is true both in the beginner's
arithmetic class and in the advanced class as well. Still, there are higher and lower
mathematics. In all incarnations of the Lord, therefore, the same principles are taught,
but they appear to be higher and lower in varied circumstances.
d. Licking outer surface of a honey bottle
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Licking the outer surface of the bottle of honey is compared to interpreting the
Bhagavad-gétä according to mundane scholarship. Such persons cannot get liberation
because they fail to understand Lord Krishna as the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
e. Bubbles in an ocean
The impersonalists compare the living entities to the bubbles of the ocean. Just like
the bubbles merge into the ocean, they prefer to merge into an impersonal void.
f. Rains and vegetation
The rains are not responsible for different types of vegetation that appear on the earth,
although without such rains there is no possibility of vegetative growth. Similarly the
Lord only gives the living entities, the proper facilities for all material activities, but
He is never responsible for their past and present activities, due to which the living
entities are entangled in this world.
g. Milk and curds
Just as a patient who is suffering from a disorder of the bowels due to overindulgence
in milk products is cured by curds, similarly, the materially absorbed conditioned soul
can be cured by activities performed in Kåñëa consciousness.
h. Boat for crossing ocean
Just as a person fallen in the ocean can cross over by taking shelter of a suitable boat,
similarly, even the most sinful person can cross this material existence by taking
shelter of transcendental knowledge.
i. Blazing fire turns firewood to ashes
Just as the blazing fire turns firewood to ashes, similarly, the fire of knowledge burns
to ashes all reactions to material activities.
152. [BG 4.1, 4.5, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 4.10, 4.11, 4.12, 4.14, 4.35 ppt] Explain the context in
which the following verses are quoted in the text book. Each answer should be brief and
limited to three sentences.
a. yac-cakñur eña savitä sakala-grahäëäà
räjä samasta-sura-mürttir açeña-tejäù
The sun is the king of the planets, and the sun-god, Vivasvän, rules the sun planet,
which is controlling all other planets by supplying heat and light. He is rotating under
the order of Kåñëa, and Lord Kåñëa originally made Vivasvän His first disciple to
understand the science of Bhagavad-gétä.
b. advaitam acyutam anädim ananta-rüpam
ädyaà puräëa-puruñaà nava-yauvanaà ca
This verse confirms that Krishna expands Himself into unlimited forms all of which
are all original and infallible, and yet Krishna retains His own form which is the
oldest and still He appears as a fresh youth.
c. dharmaà tu säkñät-bhagavat-praëétam
Principles of religion are laid down in the Vedas, and any discrepancy in the matter of
properly executing the rules of the Vedas makes one irreligious. This verse confirms
that such principles are the laws of the Lord.
d. såñöi-hetu yei mürti prapaïce avatare
sei éçvara-mürti 'avatära' näma dhare
BG Chap-4 Worksheet Bhakti Shastri Course Page 18 of

The avatära, or incarnation of Godhead, descends from the kingdom of God for
material manifestation. Therefore there is a purpose for such incarnations which is
stated to be to protect the devotees and annihilate the non-devotees.
e. tam eva viditvätimåtyumeti nänyaù panthä vidyate ayanäya
The Vedas confirm that one can attain the perfect stage of liberation from birth and
death simply by knowing the Lord, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
f. ädau çraddhä tataù sädhu-saìgo 'tha bhajana-kriyä
tato 'nartha-nivåttiù syät tato niñöhä rucis tataù
athäsaktis tato bhävas tataù premäbhyudaïcati
sädhakänäm ayaà premëaù prädurbhäve bhavet kramaù
This verse confirms that by gradual development of bhakti, beginning with faith one
can progress through stages like association of devotees, enagaging in specific
practises, purifying one’s heart, becoming fixed up, developing taste and attachment,
developing ecstacy and finally attain love of God.
g. akämaù sarva-kämo vä mokña-käma udäradhéù
tévreëa bhakti-yogena yajeta puruñaà param
This verse confirms the fact that everyone should worship the Supreme Personality of
Godhead for attaining complete perfection in life.
h. Éçvaraù paramaù kåñëaù
This verse confirms that the Supreme God is one – Kåñëa - and the demigods are
delegated with powers to manage this material world.
i. çiva-viriïci-nutam
This verse confirms that Lord Krishna is worshipped by Lord Shiva and Lord
Brahma. Therefore demigods are always subordinate to the Supreme Lord Krishna.
j. nimitta-mätram eväsau såjyänäà sarga-karmaëi
pradhäna-käraëé-bhütä yato vai såjya-çaktayaù
In the material creations, the Lord is only the supreme cause. The immediate cause is
material nature by which the cosmic manifestation is visible. The created beings are
of many varieties, such as the demigods, human beings and lower animals, and all of
them are subject to the reactions of their past good or bad activities.
k. muktir hitvänyathä rüpaà svarüpeëa vyavasthitiù
Liberation means to be situated in one's constitutional position as the eternal servitor
of Kåñëa, because the eternal truth is that everyone is an eternal fragmental part of the
Supreme Whole Krishna.
============================================================
Memorise the following verses (with meaning): BG 4.6, BG 4.8, BG 4.34
==============================================================
Write the verse BG 4.6, its meaning and explain the verse in ten sentences.
==============================================================
Additional Notes (Raja Vidya Chapter 8)
One who works for Kåñëa may appear to be working like anyone else in the material world,
but this is not the case. Arjuna may have fought just like an ordinary military man, but
because he fought in Kåñëa consciousness, he was free from the entanglement of his
activities. In this way, his work, although appearing material, was not material at all. Any
BG Chap-4 Worksheet Bhakti Shastri Course Page 19 of

action sanctioned by Kåñëa—regardless of what it may be—has no reaction. Fighting may

not be a very nice thing, but sometimes, as in the case of the Battle of Kurukñetra, it is an
absolute necessity. On the other hand, we may perform work which may be very altruistic or
humanitarian in the opinion of the world and yet be bound to material activity. So it is not the
action itself which is important but the consciousness in which the action is carried out.
karmaëo hy api boddhavyaà
boddhavyaà ca vikarmaëaù
akarmaëaç ca boddhavyaà
gahanä karmaëo gatiù
"The intricacies of action are very hard to understand. Therefore one should know properly
what action is, what forbidden action is, and what inaction is." (Bg. 4.17)
The path of karma is very intricate; therefore we should understand the distinctions between
karma, akarma and vikarma. If we simply engage in Kåñëa consciousness, everything
becomes clear. Otherwise we will have to make distinctions between what we should do and
what we should not do in order not to become entangled. In the ordinary course of life we
unknowingly break some law and have to suffer the consequences. Similarly, the laws of
nature are very strict and stringent, and they accept no excuse. It is a law of nature that fire
burns, and even if a child touches it, he will be burned despite his ignorance and innocence.
Thus we have to choose our course of action very carefully lest the stringent laws of nature
react to bind us to suffering. It is therefore necessary to understand what work to do and what
work to avoid.
The word karma refers to prescribed duties. The word vikarma refers to activities which are
against one's prescribed duties. And the word akarma refers to activities which have no
reaction at all. In the execution of akarmic activities, there may appear to be some reactions,
but in actuality there are not. When we work under the directions of Kåñëa, this is actually
the case—there are no reactions. If we take it upon ourselves to kill someone, we are subject
to capital punishment by the state government. Our actions are then called vikarma, for they
are against prescribed actions. If, however, the government drafts us into the army, and we
engage in battle and kill someone, we do not suffer the reactions, and this is called akarma. In
the one case we are acting according to our own whims, and in the other we are acting under
the direction of the government. Similarly, when we act under the direction of Kåñëa, our
actions performed are called akarma, for that kind of activity has no reaction.
karmaëy akarma yaù paçyed
akarmaëi ca karma yaù
sa buddhimän manuñyeñu
sa yuktaù kåtsna-karma-kåt
"One who sees inaction in action, and action in inaction, is intelligent among men, and he is
in the transcendental position, although engaged in all sorts of activities." (Bg. 4.18)
One who can actually see that despite activities there are no karmic reactions, who
understands the nature of akarma actually sees things as they are. The word akarmaëi refers
to one who is trying to avoid the reactions of karma. By dovetailing his activities in Kåñëa
consciousness, although one may perform all kinds of activities, he is free. On the Battlefield
of Kurukñetra, Arjuna engaged in fighting, and those on the side of Duryodhana also engaged
in fighting. We must understand how it is that Arjuna is free from reaction whereas
BG Chap-4 Worksheet Bhakti Shastri Course Page 20 of

Duryodhana is not. Externally we can see that both parties are engaged in fighting, but we
should understand that Arjuna is not bound by reactions because he is fighting under the
order of Kåñëa. Thus when we see someone working in Kåñëa consciousness, we should
understand that his work does not carry any reaction. One who can see such work and
understand it is to be considered very intelligent (sa buddhimän). The technique is not so
much in seeing what a person is doing but in understanding why he is doing it.
==============================================================
Additional Notes (Letter to Rupanuga 69-03-14)
Your fifth question, "Is this understanding of verse 18, chap. 4, correct; that the sage sees
material activities as zero (inaction in action) and sees the devotee seated chanting as
eternally active (action in inaction)?'' Yes, action in inaction—action means to do something
of which the result is enjoyed by the doer; that is action. But when things are done for
Krishna, the result is enjoyed by Krishna. When we put ourselves in the position of enjoying
good or bad reaction, then we suffer or enjoy. But action in Krishna Consciousness has
nothing to do with such material suffering or enjoying. Therefore action in Krishna
Consciousness is inaction, whereas a person doing nothing materially may appear to be
inaction to others, but actually he is doing something for Krishna. In other words, the
materialist thinks of the devotees as inactive. Similarly, the devotees think of the karmis as
inactive—simply spoiling time, building sandcastles.
==============================================================