tasmāc chāstraṁ pramāṇaṁ te kāryākārya-vyavasthitau jñātvā śāstra-vidhānoktaṁ karma kartum ihārhasi
"Therefore let scripture be your authority in determining what should be done and what should not be done. Knowing the scriptural injunctions, you should act here in this world."
What This Means:
Therefore, let scripture be your guide for knowing right from wrong. Understanding what the scriptures teach, act accordingly in this world. Wisdom traditions illuminate the path.
Going Deeper:
'Tasmāt śāstram pramāṇam te'—therefore let scripture be your authority/measure. 'Kārya-akārya-vyavasthitau'—in determining what to do and not do. 'Jñātvā śāstra-vidhāna-uktam'—knowing what is said by scriptural injunction. 'Karma kartum iha arhasi'—you should perform action here. The chapter concludes: use wisdom guidance (śāstra) for ethical clarity, then act accordingly.
How To Apply This:
When confused about right and wrong, consult wisdom traditions—scripture, wise teachers, tested ethical principles. Then act with confidence. This isn't blind faith but using the accumulated wisdom of those who've gone before.
Key Sanskrit Terms: