Book Title: Practice of Karma Yoga
Author(s): Swami Sivananda
Publisher: Divine Life Society

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Page 304
________________ PRACTICE OF KARMA YOGA world produceth not the idea of agency, nor actions, nor the union together of action and its fruit; nature however, manifesteth. The Lord accepteth neither the evil-doing nor yet the well-doing of any. Wisdom is enveloped by ignorance; therewith mortals are deluded.” Ch. V-1 to 16. Arjuna said to Lord Krishna: "I desire to know severally the essence of renunciation, O Hrishikesha, and of relinquishment, О Kesinishudana." The Blessed Lord said: "Sages have known as renunciation as the renouncing of works with desire; the relinquishing of the fruit of all actions is called relinquishment by the wise. 'Action should be relinquished as an evil', declare some thoughtful men. Acts of sacrifice, gift and austerity should not be relinquished', say others. Hear My conclusions as to that relinquishment, О best of the Bharatas, since relinquishment, О tiger of men, has been explained as threefold. Acts of sacrifice, gift and austerity should not be relinquished, but should be performed; sacrifice, gift and also austerity are the purifiers of the intelligent. But even these actions should be done leaving aside attachment and fruit, O Partha; that is My certain and best belief. Verily renunciation of actions that are prescribed is not proper, the relinquishment thereof from delusion is said to be of darkness. He who relinquisheth an action from fear of physical suffering, saying that it is painful, thus performing a passionate relinquishment, obtaineth 300

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