Chapter 3, Verse 35 (Bhagavad Gita 3.35)
Chapter 3: Karm Yog – Path of Selfless Service
Sanskrit Shloka
श्रेयान्स्वधर्मो विगुणः परधर्मात्स्वनुष्ठितात्। स्वधर्मे निधनं श्रेयः परधर्मो भयावहः
Transliteration
śhreyān swa-dharmo viguṇaḥ para-dharmāt sv-anuṣhṭhitāt swa-dharme nidhanaṁ śhreyaḥ para-dharmo bhayāvahaḥ
Word Meanings
śhreyān—better; swa-dharmaḥ—personal duty; viguṇaḥ—tinged with faults; para-dharmāt—than another’s prescribed duties; su-anuṣhṭhitāt—perfectly done; swa-dharme—in one’s personal duties; nidhanam—death; śhreyaḥ—better; para-dharmaḥ—duties prescribed for others; bhaya-āvahaḥ—fraught with fear
Translation
It is better to perform one's own duty imperfectly than to perform the duty of another well. It is better to die in one's own duty, for the duty of another is fraught with danger.
Meaning & Commentary
This verse emphasizes the importance of 'Svadharma', or one's inherent nature and calling, over the imitation of others. Psychologically, it teaches that true growth emerges when we align our actions with our inner constitution rather than conforming to external pressures. Pursuing a path alien to our soul creates internal friction, anxiety, and a fragmented identity, which the Gita characterizes as 'fear.' By embracing our unique responsibilities, even amidst flaws, we cultivate authenticity and spiritual integrity. Ultimately, this wisdom encourages us to find peace within our own evolution rather than seeking validation through the borrowed lives of others.