Chapter 3, Verse 33 (Bhagavad Gita 3.33)
Chapter 3: Karm Yog – Path of Selfless Service
Sanskrit Shloka
सदृशं चेष्टते स्वस्याः प्रकृतेर्ज्ञानवानपि। प्रकृतिं यान्ति भूतानि निग्रहः किं करिष्यति
Transliteration
sadṛiśhaṁ cheṣhṭate svasyāḥ prakṛiter jñānavān api prakṛitiṁ yānti bhūtāni nigrahaḥ kiṁ kariṣhyati
Word Meanings
sadṛiśham—accordingly; cheṣhṭate—act; svasyāḥ—by their own; prakṛiteḥ—modes of nature; jñāna-vān—the wise; api—even; prakṛitim—nature; yānti—follow; bhūtāni—all living beings; nigrahaḥ—repression; kim—what; kariṣhyati—will do
Translation
Even a wise man acts according to his own nature; all living beings follow their nature. What can restraint do?
Meaning & Commentary
This verse highlights the profound reality of 'svabhava,' or inherent disposition, which is shaped by our past tendencies and karmic impressions. It teaches us that forced suppression of one's impulses is rarely effective or sustainable, as the subconscious nature eventually asserts itself. True wisdom does not lie in repression, but in the conscious refinement and sublimation of these tendencies through discipline and spiritual practice. By understanding our inherent patterns, we can redirect our energy toward dharma rather than fighting against our own constitution. Ultimately, it invites a path of harmonious growth where transformation happens from within, transcending mere external control.