na buddhi-bhedaṁ janayed ajñānāṁ karma-saṅginām
joṣhayet sarva-karmāṇi vidvān yuktaḥ samācharan
na — not;
buddhi-bhedam — discord in the intellects;
janayet — should create;
ajñānām — of the ignorant;
karma-saṅginām — who are attached to fruitive actions;
joṣhayet — should inspire (them) to perform;
sarva — all;
karmāṇi — prescribed;
vidvān — the wise;
yuktaḥ — enlightened;
samācharan — performing properly
In this verse, the Lord is talking about how wise or knowledgeable people should behave in relation to those who lack understanding, especially those who are focused only on the results of their actions (what they get out of it). The wise person should not confuse or upset the ignorant, who are caught up in their own desires and sense enjoyment. Instead of pushing them to stop working, which might lead to confusion or laziness, the wise person should inspire them to do their work, but with a better attitude.
Let’s break it down further: The main idea is that everyone has their own way of understanding life, especially regarding their actions and how they relate to the results. People who are focused primarily on getting the fruits (or rewards) of their work can miss the bigger picture. They may end up doing things just to satisfy their own needs or desires without realizing they could connect their work to something more meaningful.
The wise person, or the enlightened person, understands that all actions can be a way of serving God (in this case, Krishna). Instead of saying, 'Stop what you’re doing,' the wise person shows how the same actions can be performed with devotion and love for God. For example, if someone is cooking just to eat or earn money, they could instead cook as an offering to God, turning a simple act into a spiritual practice. This attitude helps people see their work in a new light and connects them to something greater than just personal gain.
Moreover, the verse suggests that rather than forcing people to abandon their routines, the enlightened beings should demonstrate how their activities can be an act of service. They can lead by example, showing that it is possible to carry out one's daily tasks with intention and devotion. This way, people who are still attached to their worldly actions can gradually learn the importance of dedicating their deeds to God.
In essence, instead of criticizing or trying to change others’ ways abruptly, the wise should encourage them in their journey by showing how to align their actions with a greater purpose, which is to serve God, and find satisfaction in the work itself. The focus here is on gentle guidance rather than disruption, promoting a positive approach to one's duties and the importance of doing them with love and dedication.