There is something which ought to be known in regard to action (Karma) which forms the means of attaining release. So also is the case in regard to ‘multi-form or varied forms of action’ (Vikarma). These are what have acquired variegation as obligatory, occasional and desire-prompted works requiring numerous requisites. There is also something to be known about non-action, i.e., knowledge of the self. Therefore, deep, i.e., difficult to understand, is the way of action to be pursued by the seeker after release. What should be known as regards multi-form or variegated forms of Karma is that the attribution of differences leading to differences of fruits in obligatory, occasional and desire-prompted rites and acquisition of things required for their performance, etc., must be renounced, realising that the Shastras aim at only one result, i.e., release (and not several results said to accrue from these works). This has been declared in connection with the teaching, ‘The resolute mind is one-pointed’(2.41) and is not elaborated here.

Shri Krishna explains what must be known in regard to action and non-action.