3.10 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 3, Verse 10

Bhagavad Gita verse 3.10 presents Lord Krishna's explanation about the divine origin of sacrifice (yajna) and its purpose in human life. In this verse, Krishna reveals that at the beginning of creation, Brahma (referred to as Prajapati, the creator of beings) created humankind along with the system of sacrifices, instructing them to prosper through these yajnas.

The verse specifically states: "In the beginning of creation, Brahma created humankind along with duties, and said, 'Prosper in the performance of these yajñas,'" indicating that sacrifice was established as an intrinsic part of human existence from the very start. The Sanskrit term "saha-yajnah prajah srstva" emphasizes that beings and sacrifices were created simultaneously, suggesting their inseparable relationship in the cosmic design.

This verse addresses a practical concern - what if someone has too many material desires and cannot immediately practice Niskama Karma Yoga (selfless action)? Krishna compassionately offers an alternative path through the proper performance of sacrifices. By engaging in these prescribed yajnas, individuals with material desires can gradually purify their hearts while still fulfilling their worldly aspirations in accordance with dharma.

The profound wisdom in this teaching lies in its recognition of human nature and the provision of a progressive spiritual path. Krishna acknowledges that not everyone can immediately transcend all desires, so he recommends working within the Vedic framework of sacrifice. Through this process, one can satisfy material needs while simultaneously making spiritual advancement. The verse describes these sacrifices as "ista-kama-dhuk" - the yielder of coveted objects of desire.

On a deeper level, the verse reveals a cosmic system of interdependence. When humans perform sacrifices to please the devatas (celestial beings who manage cosmic functions), these devatas reciprocate by fulfilling human desires. This mutual cooperation creates harmony and prosperity throughout the universe. Just as citizens paying taxes enables governments to provide services, this cosmic cooperation ensures the smooth functioning of universal affairs.

The symbolism in this verse is rich and multilayered. The "bountiful cow whose milk satisfies all desires" mentioned in some translations represents the source of fulfillment. This metaphor connects to the Amritabindu Upanishad's teaching that "knowledge is the milk and the sacred scriptures are the cows". Thus, the sacrifice ultimately leads to knowledge that satisfies and eventually eliminates all desires, guiding one toward liberation.

At its essence, BG 3.10 illustrates the beautiful design of the universe where cooperation, gratitude, and duty form the foundation of cosmic harmony. It teaches that while desires are acknowledged, they can be channeled through sacred acts that gradually transform the consciousness. The verse offers a compassionate approach to spiritual growth that recognizes human limitations while providing a practical pathway toward higher consciousness - a pathway that begins with prescribed duties and culminates in spiritual liberation.