Chapter 3 • Verse 35
श्रेयान्स्वधर्मो विगुणः परधर्मात्स्वनुष्ठितात्। स्वधर्मे निधनं श्रेयः परधर्मो भयावहः॥
śhreyān sva-dharmo viguṇaḥ para-dharmāt svanuṣhṭhitāt sva-dharme nidhanaṁ śhreyaḥ para-dharmo bhayāvahaḥ
Meaning
It is better to perform one's own duty imperfectly than to perform another's duty perfectly. Death in one's own duty is preferable; another's duty is fraught with danger.
Stick to your own path, even if imperfect. Imitating others' paths leads to danger. Your unique duty, even if challenging, is your true path to growth.
Strength Reflection
"I embrace my unique path and purpose, not envying or imitating others."
Devotional Surrender
Lord, help me find and follow my sva-dharma, my own true path.