Significance of Nishkamakarma
Nishkamakarma is a central concept in various Indian philosophical traditions, particularly highlighted in the Bhagavad Gita. It refers to selfless action performed without attachment to the outcomes or results, promoting spiritual liberation and peace of mind. This principle emphasizes acting for its own sake, rather than for personal gain, leading to a higher state of bliss and a deeper understanding of duty. Nishkamakarma reconciles different paths of Dharma and remains significant in discussions around social duty and righteousness.
Synonyms: Selfless action, Unselfish work, Selfless service, Altruistic action, Disinterested action, Non-attachment to results
In Dutch: Nishkamakarma; In German: Nishkamakarma; In Finnish: Nishkamakarma; In Spanish: Karma nishkama
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Nishkamakarma'
Nishkamakarma in Hinduism signifies selfless actions performed without attachment to outcomes or personal gain. It emphasizes a unique approach to karma, advocating for desireless action as a means to attain spiritual liberation and higher bliss.
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Selfless actions that are not motivated by personal gain; their beauty is diminished without bhakti.[1] (2) Selfless action that is performed without attachment to the fruits of the action.[2]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Selfless action that is performed without attachment to the results or fruits, although it may lack the devotional aspect towards the Supreme Lord.[3]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Selfless action performed without attachment to outcomes, leading to spiritual liberation.[4]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) A selfless action performed without any attachment to the outcomes, leading to a higher state of bliss.[5]
The concept of Nishkamakarma in local and regional sources
Nishkamakarma, a key concept in the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes selfless action performed without attachment to outcomes, advocating for duty and righteousness, and is fundamental to attaining liberation and understanding in social contexts.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The principle from the Bhagavad Gita advocating for selfless service and detachment from outcomes.[6] (2) The concept of action performed without desire, a key teaching in the Bhagavad Gita emphasized in Sir C. P.'s speech.[7] (3) Actions performed without any desires, solely to please God, signifying selfless service in the practice of Karmayoga.[8] (4) The principle of selfless action without attachment to results, significant in Raja Rao's work 'Kanthapura'.[9] (5) The principle of selfless action that is a recurring theme in the discussions and translations of the Bhagavad Gita.[10]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The reconciliation of the different paths of Dharma, and this are the two special characteristics of the Gita.[11]