Bhagavad Gita 2.40 — Nehabhikrama-nasho 'sti — Word-by-Word Meaning
श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता २.४० — नेहाभिक्रमनाशोऽस्ति
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
न
na
not
इह
iha
in this (path of karma-yoga)
अभिक्रम
abhikrama
effort, endeavour
नाशः
nāśhaḥ
loss
अस्ति
asti
there is
प्रत्यवायः
pratyavāyaḥ
adverse result
न
na
not
विद्यते
vidyate
is, exists
स्वल्पम्
su-alpam
a little
अपि
api
even
अस्य
asya
of this
धर्मस्य
dharmasya
of this dharma / practice
त्रायते
trāyate
saves, protects
महतः
mahataḥ
from great
भयात्
bhayāt
from danger / fear
Complete Translation
In this path, no effort is ever lost and no obstacle prevails; even a little practice of this dharma protects one from great fear.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Verse 40
Author: Sage Veda Vyasa (Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva)
Period: Ancient (text compiled c. 5th–2nd century BCE)
In the second chapter, Sankhya Yoga, Krishna begins to introduce Arjuna to the path of selfless action (buddhi-yoga / karma-yoga). To encourage him to take it up without fear, Krishna declares that on this path no effort is ever lost and no harm results from incomplete practice — even a little of it grants great protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message of Bhagavad Gita 2.40?▼
Krishna assures Arjuna that on the path of karma-yoga, no effort is ever lost and no harm comes from incomplete practice. Even a little progress on this path protects one from the great fear of birth and death. It is a verse of pure encouragement to begin and persevere.
What is the 'great fear' this verse speaks of?▼
The 'great fear' (mahato bhayat) is traditionally understood as the fear of samsara — the endless cycle of birth, death and suffering. Even a small amount of practice on the path of selfless action begins to free the soul from this fundamental fear.
How is this different from ordinary actions?▼
In ordinary, result-driven actions, an unfinished effort can bring loss or even harm. But on the path of nishkama karma-yoga, every sincere effort is preserved and carried forward; there is no loss and no adverse reaction, even if the practice is incomplete in this life.
Why do many people love this verse?▼
It is deeply reassuring. It tells the seeker not to be discouraged by slow progress or imperfect practice, because spiritual effort is never wasted. This makes it a favourite source of motivation for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.
Ready to start chanting?
See Benefits & How to Chant →