Chapter 4, Verse 13 (Bhagavad Gita 4.13)
Chapter 4: Jñāna Karm Sanyās Yog – Path of Knowledge and the Disciplines of Action
Sanskrit Shloka
चातुर्वर्ण्यं मया सृष्टं गुणकर्मविभागशः। तस्य कर्तारमपि मां विद्ध्यकर्तारमव्ययम्
Transliteration
chātur-varṇyaṁ mayā sṛiṣhṭaṁ guṇa-karma-vibhāgaśhaḥ tasya kartāram api māṁ viddhyakartāram avyayam
Word Meanings
chātuḥ-varṇyam—the four categories of occupations; mayā—by me; sṛiṣhṭam—were created; guṇa—of quality; karma—and activities; vibhāgaśhaḥ—according to divisions; tasya—of that; kartāram—the creator; api—although; mām—me; viddhi—know; akartāram—non-doer; avyayam—unchangeable
Translation
The fourfold social order was created by Me according to the classification of attributes (Guna) and functions (Karma). Although I am the creator of this system, know Me to be the non-doer and eternal/immutable.
Meaning & Commentary
This sloka clarifies that the divine order is based on one’s inherent nature and actions, not mere birth. It teaches that the Divine manifests the framework of the universe but remains detached, like an ocean supporting waves without becoming the waves itself. By understanding this, we learn to perform our roles with dedication while cultivating a witness-consciousness that remains unaffected by the results of our deeds. True spiritual liberation comes from realizing that while we engage in worldly duties, our inner self remains an untouched observer. This wisdom encourages us to transcend ego-driven work and align our actions with our intrinsic nature, ultimately leading to peace and equanimity.