Bhagavad Gita on Vikarma

Vikarma is often translated as wrong or forbidden action, but the Gita's discussion is wider. It is about action gone astray: begun in confusion, done without regard for consequences, or avoided out of fear. Most people know this experience. We later say, I should have thought, I should not have run from that, I was sure and I was wrong.

Gita 4.17 says that spiritual progress requires understanding the distinctions between right action, wrong action and liberating action, so evaluate not only what you do but also the intention and consequences. Gita 18.25 describes tamasic action as begun from delusion with no regard for what follows, the cost or the harm to others, so weigh consequences and your capacity before beginning a task. Gita 18.32 says a tamasic intellect regards what is wrong as right, so seek honest counsel when you feel certain.

The Gita also lists ways duty goes wrong. Gita 18.7 says dropping duty out of delusion is tamasic, and Gita 18.8 says abandoning duty because it is difficult or troublesome is rajasic renunciation that earns none of renunciation's benefits. Gita 18.48 says every work has flaws, as fire has smoke, so flaws are no reason to drop duty. Gita 18.60 says the pull of one's nature is strong, so understand your deep tendencies and refine them, instead of relying only on willpower. Review your choices honestly and correct course early.