B.G 18.48
O son of Kunti, do not abandon your natural duties, even if they have faults, because all actions are clouded by faults, just as fire is enveloped by smoke.
Gīta Tātparya 18.48
Calmness, self-control, austerity, purity, forbearance, uprightness, knowledge, wisdom, and faith are the duties of a Brahmin, qualities born of one's nature.
These qualities are slightly less in a Kshatriya compared to those distinguished wise ones, or greater in some emperors than in Brahmins.
Sages, however, are indeed to be known as kings like Kārtavīrya, with valor, brilliance, steadfastness, skill, and non-retreating in battle.
Charity, lordliness, and other qualities are inherent in a Kshatriya, not to be found in a Brahmin. A Vaishya's livelihood is through agriculture and related activities.
A person who lacks calmness and similar qualities is termed a Shudra. However, if a Shudra possesses more qualities, he is considered equivalent to a Brahmin or higher.
A Brahmin with little virtue is indeed called a Shudra. A man who possesses divine qualities is known as a god among men.
- stated thus, as well.
"Worship him by performing your own duties"
From such statements it is understood that even among the Kshatriyas and others, the practice of calmness and similar qualities is observed. Without these qualities, true worship cannot occur. Proper worship is indeed achieved with calmness and similar virtues. Without them, success is not possible.
"Acts of sacrifice, charity, and austerity should never be given up"
- it is stated thus as well.
"Calmness and steadfastness of the intellect, along with self-control and control of the senses, are essential virtues"
- stated thus in the Bhagavata Purana.
It is stated that in various duties, even Kshatriyas and others should not be devoid of purity, austerity, and control.
Janaka, Tuladhara, and others are indeed endowed with all these qualities. Therefore, during times of war, non-retreat and sovereignty are the special qualities of a Kshatriya.
Agriculture and other activities, service for livelihood, sacrifices, acceptance for livelihood, and others are indeed the duties of others.
"Valor, brilliance, steadfastness, skill, and charity are qualities predominantly found in Kshatriyas, less so in Brahmins, even less in Vaishyas, and least in Shudras.
Teaching and caring are meant as livelihood among the learned, except for the virtuous. It should be known that teaching is not meant for the Shudra.
Therefore, a Shudra, by nature, has little inclination for service without it serving as livelihood. These are natural states, but sometimes another state may exist. However, a contrary state imposed by force, even if it seems natural, should be rejected.
Even naturally auspicious things require effort to grow. Sacrifices that bring prosperity should be conducted by the right people, not others, even if they seem beneficial. The steadfastness of the Shudras is valued for the benefit of Brahmins and Kshatriyas."
- stated thus, as well.
