yat sānkhyaiḥ prāpyate sthānaṁ tad yogair api gamyate
ekaṁ sānkhyaṁ cha yogaṁ cha yaḥ paśhyati sa paśhyati
yat — what;
sānkhyaiḥ — by means of karm sanyās;
prāpyate — is attained;
sthānam — place;
tat — that;
yogaiḥ — by working in devotion;
api — also;
gamyate — is attained;
ekam — one;
sānkhyam — renunciation of actions;
cha — and;
yogam — karm yog;
cha — and;
yaḥ — who;
paśhyati — sees;
saḥ — that person;
paśhyati — actually sees
This verse talks about two different paths to understanding life—one through giving up actions and the other through performing actions with devotion. At first glance, these paths look very different. The renunciation path (Sankhya) suggests that to find true peace and connection with the ultimate, one should let go of all material desires and activities. On the other hand, the devotional path (Yoga) encourages people to engage in activities, but with love and dedication towards God, in this case, Krishna.
The key message here is that both paths actually lead to the same goal: realizing one’s true self and connecting with the Supreme Spirit. So, the verse is saying that someone who understands this sees the bigger picture; they can see that whether you renounce actions or perform them with sincerity, you are striving for the same ultimate truth.
Think of it like two roads leading to the same destination. One road might be steep and winding, filled with challenges, but that’s where you can learn a lot and grow. The other road might be straight and quiet; while you’re moving along easily, you’re also gathering different experiences and insights. Both experiences are valuable and ultimately guide you to the same place.
Furthermore, the verse emphasizes that our true nature is not merely tied to this physical world. We are all part of something much bigger—like being a drop in the ocean. When we connect our actions to something greater, like Krishna, we align ourselves with our true purpose.
In practical terms, if someone is working in a job, they can still connect their work to devotion by seeing it as a way to serve others and please God while taking care of their responsibilities. This way, work becomes more meaningful and joyful, rather than just a routine task. Those who can combine both awareness (from the renunciation path) and action (from the devotional path) will experience true clarity and happiness because they understand that the essence of both paths is ultimately linked—fully engaging in life while recognizing our deeper spiritual connection.