Liberation From Karma – In Gita Verse 4.16 Even the intelligent are bewildered in determining what is action and what is inaction. Now I shall explain to you what action is, knowing which you shall be liberated from all misfortune.
In the Bhagavad Gita Verse 4.16, Krishna delivers a profound lesson to Arjuna, addressing the bewildered essence of Kamu (action) and Akamu (inaction). Even the wisest among us often struggle to discern the true essence of these concepts. Krishna promises to unveil this mystery, offering liberation from worldly misfortunes to those who understand.
At first glance, it seems obvious what constitutes Kamu and Akamu. We are conditioned to believe that action is simply what we do and inaction is what we refrain from doing. Yet, Krishna challenges this notion, suggesting that even those considered wise are often confused. This revelation invites us to reconsider our understanding. What we typically label as Kamu might actually be reaction, and what we perceive as Akamu may not be genuine inaction.
Consider the instances when we react impulsively: someone insults us, and we retaliate; someone praises us, and we bask in the glory. These responses are not true Kamu; they are reactions, driven by external stimuli rather than originating from within. Our lives are filled with such reactions, from birth to death, as we navigate a world that constantly presses our buttons, much like a light bulb that illuminates when switched on but lacks autonomy.
True Kamu is spontaneous and inspired, arising naturally from within without external provocation. It is the essence of being in a state of flow, where actions are not dictated by the external environment but are a reflection of one’s inner state. Similarly, Akamu is not merely the absence of action. It is a profound state of inner silence and stillness, where the mind is free from the clamour of desires and the turmoil of thoughts.
Krishna illustrates this concept through the example of Buddha, who remained unaffected when a man spat on him. Buddha did not react with anger or resentment; instead, he responded with understanding and compassion. This exemplifies true Kamu, where one’s actions are not reactions but are born from a place of inner peace and clarity.
The distinction between Kamu and Akamu is subtle yet significant. It requires a deep understanding and awareness of one’s inner state. Those who achieve this awareness experience liberation, as they are no longer bound by the constraints of reactive behaviour. They transcend the duality of action and inaction, moving beyond the cycle of karma.
Krishna’s teachings emphasise the importance of consciousness and awareness. When one acts without attachment to the fruits of action, responding to the present moment with full presence, they embody true Kamu. Such actions, free from expectation and desire, lead to liberation.
Achieving this state of being requires silence and the transcendence of the mind. It is not about changing one’s actions but about transforming one’s consciousness. As consciousness evolves, actions naturally align with one’s inner truth, reflecting a state of harmony and balance. This transformation is not about reward or punishment but about the intrinsic joy and peace that arise from living authentically.
Krishna addresses Arjuna, promising to elucidate the reasons behind his current bewilderment. He encourages Arjuna to adopt a fluid approach, seamlessly navigating between the objective and subjective realms. By cultivating a continuous flow, unperturbed by the fluctuations of action and inaction, one can operate with clarity and intent. This harmonious state of existence liberates individuals from the shackles of karma and the misfortunes it may bring.
In this enlightened state, one transcends the dualities of the material world, achieving a balance that fosters both understanding and purpose. Krishna’s guidance suggests that by embracing this fluidity, Arjuna – and indeed, anyone – can rise above confusion and achieve a higher level of awareness. This profound liberation is not merely a release from past actions but a pathway to a more purposeful and enlightened existence, free from the constraints of destiny and misfortune.
Krishna’s teachings call for a shift in perspective. By understanding the true nature of Kamu and Akamu, we can transcend the limitations of reactive living. This journey towards self-awareness and liberation is not about external actions but about cultivating an inner state of peace and presence. Through meditation and self-reflection, we can bring light into our lives, dispelling the darkness of ignorance and paving the way for a life of freedom and fulfillment.
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