Martial Art – In Gita Verse 4.17 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.
In the Bhagavad Gita Verse 4.17, Krishna imparts profound wisdom on the nature of action, its complexities, and the discernment required to navigate through life’s moral dilemmas. According to Krishna, understanding action is not straightforward; it involves recognising the nature of right action (karm), forbidden action (vikarm), and inaction (akarm). This distinction is crucial because the movement of action is intricate and often elusive, much like the subtle currents beneath the surface of a river.
The essence of action, or karm, lies in those deeds that are aligned with dharma – actions recommended by the scriptures that purify the mind and regulate the senses. These are auspicious acts that contribute to personal and spiritual growth. On the other hand, forbidden action, or vikarm, comprises those deeds prohibited by religious and moral codes because they degrade the soul and lead to spiritual decline. Inaction, or akarm, is the state where actions are performed without attachment to their outcomes, done purely for the pleasure of God, and thus free from karmic consequences.
Life is a tapestry of complex situations, often presenting us with choices where the lines between right and wrong blur. The scriptures provide guidance, but real-life scenarios require discernment beyond written codes. For instance, stealing is forbidden, yet there might be circumstances where taking something without permission could save a life. Similarly, telling the truth is a virtue, but if it leads to harm, one must weigh the consequences carefully.
The story of a Brahmin confronted by a butcher searching for his runaway cow illustrates this moral quandary. The Brahmin faces a dilemma: to tell the truth and indirectly contribute to the cow’s slaughter, or to lie and violate the principle of truthfulness. Such situations demand a deep understanding of the nuances of action and the wisdom to choose the lesser evil.
Krishna reflects on the intricate nature of existence and action, pondering when and how to act, and when to refrain. Inaction occurs when we are self-unconscious, showing non-initiative. However, when fully self-conscious, we transcend this non-initiative, responding aptly to the present moment, embodying a higher form of inaction.
This complexity is akin to the practice of martial arts in Taoism and Zen Buddhism, where the focus is on self-defence rather than aggression. Martial arts teach practitioners to be mindful of their actions, cultivating a state of awareness that transcends the duality of subject and object. This practice reflects the journey from self-unconsciousness to self-consciousness, where one learns when to act and when to refrain from action.
Martial arts, despite their warlike connotations, embody a philosophy of balance and self-control. The discipline required to master these arts is both physical and spiritual, aligning with the Taoist and Zen principles of harmony and mindfulness. Practitioners learn to respond to situations with a clear mind, free from the turmoil of emotions and thoughts, achieving a state of no-mind where they simply observe the mind’s workings without judgement.
This state of no-mind is where true clarity and insight emerge. By watching the mind’s subtle nuances, its sudden turns, and the dreams it weaves, one becomes a detached observer. This detachment allows for moments of pure awareness, where the mind is silent, and the world reveals its mysteries without the filters of bias and preconception.
Krishna’s teachings in the Gita invite us to approach life with this same clarity and detachment. By understanding the nature of action, we can navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and grace. It is not merely about following rules but about cultivating an inner awareness that guides our actions in harmony with the greater good.
In this journey, we are fortunate to have various practices and philosophies to guide us. Each offers a unique perspective, helping us understand ourselves and the world around us more profoundly. By embracing these teachings, we can live more consciously, making choices that reflect our highest values and deepest understanding.
Krishna’s guidance through the Gita is a call to be present and mindful in the midst of life’s complexities. It is an invitation to engage with the world while remaining anchored in our true selves, navigating the path of life with wisdom, balance, and compassion.
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