3.2. Karma Yoga (path of selfless action) The word Karma, derived from the root (Kri) to make or to do, has many meanings. It can signify action, work, product, effect, and so on. Thus Karma Yoga is literally the Yoga of action. But here the term Karma stands for a particular kind of action. Specifically, it denotes an inner attitude towards action, which itself is a form of action. What this attitude consists in is spelled out in the Bhagavad Gita, which is the earliest scripture to teach Karma Yoga. “Karmany ev’ adhikaras te ma phalesu kadacana / ma karma-phala-hetur bhur ma te sango’ stv akarmani // [B.G.- II – 47]” To work alone you have competence, and not to claim their fruits. Let not the longing for fruits be the motive force of your action. At the same time let not this attitude confirm you in indolent inaction. So that one should work always without any selfishness.