Chapter 18 • Verse 11
न हि देहभृता शक्यं त्यक्तुं कर्माण्यशेषतः। यस्तु कर्मफलत्यागी स त्यागीत्यभिधीयते॥
na hi deha-bhṛitā śhakyaṁ tyaktuṁ karmāṇy aśheṣhataḥ yas tu karma-phala-tyāgī sa tyāgīty abhidhīyate
Meaning
It is not possible for one who has a body to completely abandon action. But one who relinquishes the fruits of action is called a true relinquisher.
While embodied, complete inaction is impossible — even breathing and thinking are actions. True renunciation is giving up attachment to results, not giving up action itself. This practical wisdom applies to everyone.
Strength Reflection
"I cannot abandon all action; I can abandon attachment to results."
Devotional Surrender
O Lord, I am a true tyagi by releasing attachment to the fruits of action.