Guides · Fear · Purpose · Self-worth
Bhagavad Gita 3.35
Your own path, walked imperfectly, is worth more than someone else's path walked flawlessly.
Bhagavad Gita · Chapter 3, Verse 35
श्रेयान्स्वधर्मो विगुणः परधर्मात्स्वनुष्ठितात्।
स्वधर्मे निधनं श्रेयः परधर्मो भयावहः॥
śreyān sva-dharmo viguṇaḥ para-dharmāt sv-anuṣṭhitāt
sva-dharme nidhanaṁ śreyaḥ para-dharmo bhayāvahaḥ
Translation
It is better to follow your own path imperfectly than another's path perfectly. Better to stay true to your own nature; following another's path is full of fear.
हिन्दी भावार्थ
दूसरे के धर्म को भली-भाँति निभाने से अपना धर्म, गुणरहित होने पर भी, श्रेष्ठ है। अपने धर्म में रहना कल्याणकारी है; दूसरे का धर्म भय देने वाला है।
In simple words Interpretation
Your own path, walked imperfectly, is worth more than someone else's path walked flawlessly.
Context
Krishna speaks of svadharma — one's own nature and calling. Many readers find in it a release from comparison.
When this may help
When you're comparing yourself to others, or living by expectations that don't feel like yours.
Reflection question
Whose path have you been trying to walk instead of your own?
A small practice
Write down one thing you do because you want to, and one you do because others expect it.
Reflect on this verse, save your thoughts or share it as a card.
Open in Gita Reflection