The twentieth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.

In this talk, starting with Chapter 4:16, Swamiji discusses the nature of action and inaction, how we can view situations in our spiritual life objectively and intelligently, and how we must restrain our thought and our lower self, plus other aspects of Krishna'a teachings in the Gita.

Here is a summary of the talk on "Action and Inaction." by Swami Nirmalananda:

• Understanding Action and Inaction: Swamiji explores the complex nature of action (karma) and inaction. Physical action is only a small part of what constitutes true action; mental activity, intentions, and the internal state of being also play crucial roles.
• Perception of Action: Learn how one can perform actions while remaining internally detached or "inactive" in terms of attachment. Conversely, one might appear inactive externally but be very active internally through thoughts, plans, and desires.
• Wisdom and Yoga: The person who understands and can perceive action in inaction and inaction in action is described as wise and steadfast in yoga. This wisdom leads to a state where actions do not bind the individual with karmic reactions.
• Beyond Desire and Attachment: True action involves doing without attachment to the outcomes or desires for results. This state is likened to that of a yogi who acts but remains unbound by the fruits of those actions.
• Contentment and Non-Attachment: The concept of being content with what comes naturally or unbidden, understanding one's karma, and acting in accordance with dharma (righteousness) without being swayed by success or failure is emphasized.
• Freedom from Dualities: A wise person transcends dualities like pleasure and pain, likes and dislikes, which do not affect them internally despite engaging in worldly activities.
• Karma Management: An anecdote about a man overly concerned with avoiding bad karma illustrates the folly of being overly fearful of karmic consequences without considering the broader spiritual context or the principle of action.
• Higher Consciousness and Reality: This talk touches on the idea that reality is not separate from consciousness; everything is a manifestation of divine energy, and understanding this leads to true wisdom.
• Spiritual Life and Daily Actions: Swamiji suggests that integrating spiritual insights into daily life means acting with full awareness, where the external actions do not dictate the internal peace or wisdom.

The talk intertwines philosophical insights with practical advice, urging listeners to delve deeper into the spiritual dimensions of action to lead a life of wisdom and liberation from the cycle of karma.