Unity of Paths

As outlined in the Bhagavad Gita, there are two approaches to the absolute, that of knowledge and that of action, and that to help practise these approaches, we must do so with devotion, and control over the mind and senses. The wise know that one who is pure in action, is so due to knowledge, and one who is of knowledge, is also pure in his actions. Thus the point here is that these seemingly different paths converge, and that one cannot attain one without attaining the others.

When you hear people speak of one path as superior to other, it just shows their ignorance and immaturity. It conveys that they have not comprehended even the very path that they claim to be the one and only true path. None of the paths when viewed independent of the others can lead to progress. Progress happens automatically due to synergies between the various paths. Those who cut the other paths off, are killing synergy, and hence killing progress itself.

Karma Yoga in the Gita

The following extracts from the Bhagavad Gita help us understand Karma Yoga

1) Not even for a moment can man be without action. Helplessly all are driven into action by the forces of nature

2) Not by refraining from action can a man be free of action; nor can he attain perfection by mere renunciation

3) The world is held in bondage to action,unless action is a sacrifice

4) The ignorant act while attached to their actions. The wise act, free of attachment. for the welfare of the world

5) The actions of a great man are an inspiration to the world. Whatever he does, becomes a standard for others to follow.

6) The state achieved by the wise is also that achieved by those of selfless action. He who sess that both paths are the same, he truly sees

7) Thy rights is to thy actions alone, but never to the fruits of the actions; let not the rewards of action be thy motive; nor yet be attached to inaction.