Karma yoga, also known as the path of action or selfless service towards others, is one of the four classical schools of yoga alongside Jnana (knowledge or self-study), Bhakti (devotion), and Raja (meditation)
. It is derived from the Sanskrit term for "action" and is understood by both Hindu and Buddhist traditions to be the sum of a person's actions
. The main purpose of karma yoga is to control and let go of the ego, thereby purifying the mind and helping individuals realize their true self
. The concept of karma yoga can be traced back to the Bhagavad Gita, a Hindu scripture that offers several approaches to liberation from suffering, self- realization, and connection with the divine
. Karma yoga emphasizes selfless action performed for the benefit of others, without being attached to the outcomes or being manipulated by them
. The four main principles of karma yoga are
:
- Duty : A karma yogi should act according to their dharma, or duty, without being attached to the fruits or personal consequences.
- Ego : Karma yoga aims to control and let go of the ego, which is the root cause of suffering.
- Attachment : A practitioner should not be attached to the outcomes of their actions, as this can lead to suffering and the cycle of karma.
- Expectation of reward : Karma yoga should be practiced without the expectation of gain or personal consequences.
To practice karma yoga in daily life, individuals can engage in activities that serve others, such as volunteering, helping neighbors, or participating in global service
. The key is to act selflessly and without attachment to the results, which helps to purify the heart and connect with the larger picture
