Verse-28
Chapter 4 — Gyan Karma Sannayasa Yoga
Verse 28
🕉 Original Sanskrit Shloka
dravyayajñāstapoyajñā yogayajñāstathāpare
svādhyāyajñānayajñāśca yatayaḥ saṁśitavratāḥ
🕉 English Translation
Dhan yagya koyi karte,tap yagya koyi,
Yagya karte hai yoga rupi kayi.
Kathin vrata lete hain kuch yatanvan,
Kare svadhaye se veh yagya gyan.
📜 Translation
English
Many persons are the performers of sacrifice of material possessions, while others are the performers of various types of sacrifice of austerities; yet, others energetic seekers firm in their vows offer study and knowledge as sacrifice.
In one verse has been described several forms of sacrifice! The goal to be achieved or the aim is decided but the states of self-seeking and methods can be different. According to one's mental state and station of life one is in, difference in the method of self-seeking is possible and acceptable in the eternal religion (sanatan dharma). The matter relates to the striving seekers. The separate kinds of sacrifice are the different states of the inner inclinations of the seeker, not mere actions. If in firmness of resolution more an arduous vow is taken, then the path of spiritual discipline will become easier. If only the outward act of the sacrifice has taken place, but there is firmness in the inner state; there will be delay in accomplishment. For this reason the use of the word 'yatayah and sansitavratah' shows the depth of Gita philosophy, far-sightedness and for the seekers it is an extremely beneficial state.
'Dravyayajna' describes wealth and capacities related to wealth. Take it to be the beneficence of the Lord. Do not keep it limited to your selfish ends; make right use of it. After meeting the physical, family, social responsibilities, it is necessary to keep apart a part of it as far as possible for serving the poor, destitute helpless, disabled and needy. Service will provide mental satisfaction, will benefit others and will become the basis of the Lord's pleasure. This is also a form of sacrifice.
'Tapoyajna'-for making life meaningful and successful some resoluteness has to be brought in. Just by becoming accustomed to mere bodily pleasures and conveniences and limiting oneself to it, taking it to be life itself and sometimes due to this even losing the feeling to do some good is not proper. Always abiding by self-discipline, doing good to others and enduring the hurdles which come on the path of spiritual life are austerities. If done in a proper manner then even fasting can also be put in this category. Because this strengthens self-discipline. This is also called a sacrifice by the Blessed Lord.
'Yogayajna'-yoga takes several forms. In the Gita, three principle yoga find mention-yoga of action, yoga of devotion and yoga of knowledge. 'Svadhyayajnanayajna' study of holy scriptures. The scripture which motivates us to move towards our origin, awaken our dormant discrimination, directs our mental propensities from unreal to Real, inspires life values, ideals, traditions, attitude and right spirit in us, study of such scriptures as the Vedas, The Upanishads, The Gita, The Ramayan, The Bhagvad etc., is in itself a sacrifice of knowledge.