Illustration for Bhagavad Gita chapter 9 verse 20
Chapter 9 · Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga

Aim of Devotion · Temporary Reward vs. Lasting Union

त्रैविद्या मां सोमपाः पूतपापा यज्ञैरिष्ट्वा स्वर्गतिं प्रार्थयन्ते । ते पुण्यमासाद्य सुरेन्द्रलोकमश्नन्ति दिव्यान्दिवि देवभोगान् ॥

traividyā māṁ somapāḥ pūtapāpā yajñair iṣṭvā svargatiṁ prārthayante, te puṇyam āsādya surendralokam aśnanti divyān divi devabhogān.

Meaning

"Knowers of the three Vedas, drinkers of the Soma juice, purified of sin, worship Me with sacrifices and pray for passage to heaven; attaining the pure world of Indra, they enjoy the divine pleasures of the gods."

Explanation

Even sincere spiritual effort can be shaped by what it's aimed at—here, toward temporary heavenly reward rather than lasting union.

Today's Life Lesson

Reflect today on what your good actions are truly aimed at—a passing reward, or something lasting.

More verses to reflect on