यस्य सर्वे समारम्भाः कामसङ्कल्पवर्जिताः। ज्ञानाग्निदग्धकर्माणं तमाहुः पण्डितं बुधाः
A person is called a sage when all their undertakings are free from desire and worldly thoughts, and their actions are burnt up by the fire of wisdom.
The same outward task can be done for praise or with genuine care. Before beginning a difficult job, notice your motive and choose the quality of attention you want to bring.
Go deeper into this verse
In Chapter 4, Verse 19, how are the actions of a wise person described?
The actions of a wise person are described as being devoid of desire and worldly thoughts, and any such actions are considered to be burnt up by the fire of wisdom.
Why are actions 'burnt up by the fire of wisdom' considered significant?
Actions that are burnt up by the fire of wisdom are significant because they are purified and no longer driven by personal desires or attachments. This purification leads to a state of selflessness and true understanding, aligning one's actions with higher spiritual truths.
What does it mean for undertakings to be 'free from desire and thoughts of the world'?
Being 'free from desire and thoughts of the world' means that one's actions are not motivated by personal gain, attachment, or the pursuit of worldly pleasures. Instead, they are performed with a sense of duty and wisdom, without attachment to results.
How can one achieve actions that are free from desire according to this teaching?
To achieve actions free from desire, one must cultivate wisdom and self-awareness, recognizing the transient nature of worldly desires. Practicing detachment and focusing on the greater good or spiritual goals instead of personal gain can help align actions with wisdom, leading to true freedom.
Whose works are all free from the moulding of desire, whose actions are burned up by the fire of wisdom, him the wise have called a Sage.