35. Performing one’s own duty however unpleasant or small, or devoid of merit (that is determined by one’s inherent nature) is preferable to a well performed duty of another (that is in accordance with that person’s nature) as it is not conducive to one’s spiritual growth because the performance of another’s duty even if that is performed well is associated with fear of downfall (as it may not be in accordance with his dominant nature and the performance may not be up to the mark and it is also stepping into another’s shoes that is unnecessary). Even if one has to face death while engaging in one’s duty, it is preferable because …show more content…
The soldier whose nature has made him a soldier should stick to his duties of fighting and protecting his country and its people instead of performing the duty of any other and he should try to do his duty in the best possible manner. When one does another’s job then he is not responsible for the outcome. Also even if he thinks that he has done another one's work well, it may not be actually so because that work is not in accordance with his inborn nature. This may also affect the sincerity and commitment of that person in doing that work that is not in accordance with his inherent qualities.
In the above verse Lord Krishna seems to suggest that Arjuna being a warrior and a prince should do his duty of fighting in the war.
Verse 36
Arjuna asking the Lord about the impulsive nature of actions
Arjuna uvaacha Atha kena prayukto'yam paapam charati poorushah anicchann api Vaarshneya balaad iva niyojitah // 3.36 …show more content…
It is the Rajo guna (passionate nature) that shows itself in the nature of uncontrollable lust that becomes anger that leads man to great sins. Understand that this is to be the greatest enemy of all enemies (especially in one’s spiritual progress). Passion or intense desire that is unfulfilled results in anger or disappointments or dejection etc and therefore passion or any uncontrollable desire or craving is the greatest enemy of any . It is also sinful and destructive.
Dhoomenaavriyate vahnir yathaadarsho malena cha yatho'lbenaavrito garbhas tathaa tenedam aavritam // 3.38 //
38. Like smoke enveloping fire, dirt covering a mirror, the placenta covering the embryo in the womb, so also desire or lust covers up knowledge.
Aavritam jnaanam etena jnaanino nitya-vairinaa kaama-roopena Kaunteya dushpoorena analena cha // 3.39 //
39. O, Kauntheya, (Arjuna), the uncontrollable lust that is like the uncontrollable fire is the eternal enemy of the spiritual aspirant that covers up knowledge (as it hinders spiritual