Chapter 3: Karma Yoga – Transforming All Activities into Yoga: Verse 21
यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जन: ।
स यत्प्रमाणं कुरुते लोकस्तदनुवर्तते ।।
yad-yad-ācarati śreṣṭhas-tat-tad-evetaro jana:
sa yat-pramāṇaṃ kurute lokas-tad-anuvartate – 3.21
Whatever the great and noble one does, that alone others tend to follow. Whatever he exemplifies, holds as esteemed, the world emulates.
Chapter 3: Karma Yoga – Transforming All Activities into Yoga - Verse 21
Swami Nirviseshananda Tirtha
As is typical of Krishna, he presents precepts and principles to back his exhortation. “Look,” says Krishna, “Whatever an esteemed person does, that the commoners tend to follow. Leaders are rare, while the led are many. They will always need someone, whom they will adore and emulate.
“You are a brave fighter before them. They are out to copy you. If you shun this battle and escape, many will surely follow suit. Consider the grave danger it breeds. You have to set an example. It cannot be of fear, escape, laziness or reluctance to fight. Instead, instil bravery, valour, unyieldingness and perseverance. Make no mistake in this.
“Think well, beyond the mind’s depressing notes, embodying propriety, courage and heroism – the powerful calls of intelligence. Let the whole Kurukshetra shine with your dexterity and mastery.”
