Take some examples from within your own experience. The commuter working in an office, the farmer who lives on his own toil, the porter who depends on his physical strength to gather the meagre means of livelihood, the blacksmith, the potter, the carpenter, the washerman, the barber - these are conscious of the activities which they have to follow and the sense of duty with which they have to follow them. They know that their lives cannot flow smooth, when each one does not fill his assignment with dedication. Therefore, they engage themselves in their profession as best as their intelligence, skills and aspirations allow. But, where is the need to prompt such people into further activity, to warn them and encourage them? We have to undertake this task only when they are unable or unwilling to carry on their duties.

In the case of Arjuna, who was confused about his duty and who withheld from battle since he was befogged by a feeling of renunciation, Sri Krishna said, "You have only to concentrate over the act and carry it out as you can. To act and only to act is the duty imposed on you." That was the immortal nectarine advice of the Lord. This advice is quoted by many. But it must be pointed out that this advice was given in the context of the restoration of Righteousness. It deals with activities approved by holy scriptures and sastras and not with worldly, sensual and animal activities like seeking food, shelter and mates.

Dharmaraja and others were immersed in worldly affairs and they were past-masters in dealing with worldly situations. They were engaged constantly in following and fostering duties and responsibilities laid down for the four castes in society and the four stages of life. Why then should they be prompted and persuaded, counselled and commanded to engage in battle? Krishna advised only Arjuna to resume his bow and arrows, presenting before him many an argument. "You are born in the Kshatriya caste; that caste is entrusted by social norms with the execution of one social duty, fighting against injustice. Engaging in battle against wickedness is your responsibility. Do not desert that duty and discard that burden. Man is bound to the inclinations implanted in him by Nature. Again, consider this. Man has to be ever involved in some activity or other; he cannot live without it even for a moment. Therefore, it is best you act now, in accordance with the inclination and skill impressed on you by your ancestry and heredity". This is the lesson taught to him, the Kula-Dharma, the path of the caste or class to which he belonged.

Does 'work' connote only acts by which food etc., are procured? Aircraft, ships, factories, hospitals are products of work. They too can be said to involve only worldly material 'work'. This type of work is important for living, and happy living here is a preparation for spiritual advancement in the hereafter. The more faulty one's activities in his worldly pursuits, the less success will be for the individual, the society and the nation. There can be no two opinions on these points. Nevertheless, men do not exert as efficiently and as enthusiastically for spiritual advancement, as they do for worldly success and fame. This is indeed a pity.