kṛiṣhi-gau-rakṣhya-vāṇijyaṁ vaiśhya-karma svabhāva-jam
paricharyātmakaṁ karma śhūdrasyāpi svabhāva-jam
kṛiṣhi — agriculture;
gau-rakṣhya — dairy farming;
vāṇijyam — commerce;
vaiśhya — of the mercantile and farming class;
karma — work;
svabhāva-jam — born of one’s intrinsic qualities;
paricharyā — serving through work;
ātmakam — natural;
karma — duty;
śhūdrasya — of the worker class;
api — and;
svabhāva-jam — born of one’s intrinsic qualities
In this verse, Krishna is explaining the different types of work that belong to specific groups of people in society, focusing on Vaisyas and Sudras.
First, let’s talk about the Vaisyas. This group typically includes people involved in farming, taking care of cows, and running businesses. When we think about farming, we imagine planting crops and harvesting them for food. Cattle raising means taking care of animals like cows, which can provide milk and other products. Business includes selling goods and trading, which helps the economy grow and provides jobs for others.
The role of the Vaisyas is crucial because they help generate wealth for the community and ensure that everyone has what they need to live comfortably. Their work is not just about making money; it’s also about supporting the society by providing essential resources like food and services that everyone relies on every day. For example, when farmers grow crops, they feed the community. When business people sell goods, they provide jobs and products that people need.
Now, let’s look at the Sudras. This group focuses on labor and service, which might include helping others in various ways. Sudras utilize their skills to assist people, often performing tasks that support others' work. They may work in schools, serve in restaurants, help with household chores, or do manual labor in construction sites.
The key takeaway here is that both Vaisyas and Sudras have important roles in society based on their natural talents and skills. Krishna emphasizes that everyone has something unique to contribute.
By doing work that fits their abilities, both groups help society run smoothly. The Vaisyas support the community's economy through farming and business, while the Sudras provide necessary services that keep daily life functioning. Together, they create a balanced and supportive community, where each type of work, whether it’s farming, business, or service, is valuable and needed.
This verse highlights that everyone has a unique role aligned with their natural qualities and abilities, and when individuals focus on their inherent skills, they contribute to the well-being of the entire community.
In summary, Krishna teaches that by understanding and embracing our roles—whether we are producing food, running a business, or providing essential services—we play a vital part in the social structure, fostering cooperation and prosperity for all.