Lord Krishna has spoken about giving up the fruits of labour in multiple verses of the Bhagavad Gita. I present a few of them here: “When prescribed work is done considering that as duty only, and by renouncing attachment and the fruit of action also, that relinquishment is considered to be in goodness.” (Gita 18.9)

In an earlier verse, Lord Krishna declares the relinquishment of the fruits of all acts as tyaga (renunciation). (Gita 18.2) And perhaps the most profound is this: “Knowledge is superior to practice; meditation is superior to knowledge; giving up the fruit of action is superior to meditation.” (Gita 12.12)

This is because using the fruits of action for the benefit of others pleases God the most. God is complete in every respect; He does not need anything material from us. But when we use our material possessions as a medium to serve others in His name, He is deeply pleased. There are two kinds of fruits of action: material and spiritual. Let me begin with the material kind, which are more common. We have ten senses and their leader — the mind.

Of the ten, five are knowledge-gathering: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin. Each sense can experience pleasure in different modes. For example, the eyes: In sattva (goodness), one enjoys natural beauty, serene landscapes, and art. In rajas (passion), the pleasure comes from action — sports, cinema, and thrill. In tamas (ignorance), one may be drawn to vulgar content, violence, or obscenity. Similar modes of pleasure exist for the other senses. As for the working senses — speech, hands, feet, genitals, and anus — sensual pleasures are among the most intense and sought after. However, these pleasures are personal and fleeting. Those who can master their senses often live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Now, at a subtler level, there are the mind, intelligence, ahankara (ego) and consciousness.

A controlled mind brings peace. Elevated intelligence makes life meaningful. Curbed ego makes us more acceptable in society. Awareness and presence (consciousness) give a sense of significance.

Yet, attachment to the material world keeps the cycle of birth and death intact. Looking at the grosser fruits of action, one can sacrifice time to serve others. Parents, volunteers, and social workers do this nobly. Then there are physical possessions we can give away — old phones, unused clothes, household items.

Money is perhaps the most significant of all. Since people are deeply attached to it, using it for others is a powerful renunciation. However, Lord Krishna cautions: “That charity which is given with the thought that one must give, without expectation of return, and to a worthy recipient — that charity is in the mode of goodness.” (Gita 17.20) Quality time, too, should be offered to family and loved ones. This includes meeting both material and emotional needs. But to do this well, we must overcome our fault-finding nature, as everyone has shortcomings. To make our seva (service) meaningful, it must be welcomed, and for that, appreciation is key. I have found that sincerely appreciating others — especially those close — opens hearts. Such acts truly please God. Now, I come to the most important form of offering — the fruits of labour to God Himself.

Time must again come first. Personally, my Lord has relieved me of many responsibilities, acting as the karta (doer) in my life. I use the spare time to connect with God through spiritual practices that suit me and are free from pressure. Next is fame, which I have received by His kripa (grace) through my books and articles. God enabled me with opportunities, support, and inspiration.

For instance, we recently distributed spiritual books for children to 1,000 schools in Delhi. My Lord must be pleased. Then comes empowerment. I’m deeply grateful to God that I can now support my loved ones — both materially and spiritually. That brings me to a verse I cherish: “No one among men pleases Me more than he, nor will there ever be one dearer to Me on earth.” (Gita 18.69) Finally, my service to God includes setting an example of renounced living, just as He instructs. In doing so, I offer everything I have — time, fame, energy, and resources — at His feet.

(The writer is a spiritual teacher)