yadṛcchā-lābha-santuṣṭo dvandvātīto vimatsaraḥ samaḥ siddhāv asiddhau ca kṛtvāpi na nibadhyate
"Content with whatever comes by chance, beyond the pairs of opposites, free from envy, equal in success and failure—such a person, even while acting, is not bound."
What This Means:
The free person is happy with whatever comes unsought, has transcended the opposites (pleasure/pain, hot/cold, etc.), has no envy, and treats success and failure the same. Even though they act, they're not bound by action.
Going Deeper:
'Yadriccha-labha' (gains that come by chance) indicates not scheming for outcomes but accepting what life brings. 'Dvandva-atita' (beyond dualities) means not being pushed around by opposite experiences. 'Vimatsara' (free from envy) shows no comparison with others. 'Sama' (equal) in success/failure completes the equanimity. This is complete freedom while living and acting in the world.
How To Apply This:
Practice contentment with whatever comes today—unsought. Notice your reaction to opposites (comfortable vs. uncomfortable) and practice equanimity. Watch for envy when others succeed. These small practices loosen karma's grip. You act, but action doesn't stick.
Key Sanskrit Terms: