Every action produces a reaction. Material activities bind one to the cycle of birth and death through karmic reactions. The Bhagavad-gita (3.5) teaches that no one can remain without action even for a moment, and (3.9) explains that action performed as a sacrifice for the Supreme purifies one. The Bhagavad-gita (3.27) states that all actions are performed by the modes of nature, and (4.14-17) describes how to transcend karmic reactions through understanding.

One has the right to perform prescribed duty but not to the fruits of action, as taught in the Bhagavad-gita (2.47-48). Work should be performed as an offering to the Supreme, without attachment to results. The Bhagavad-gita (3.19) teaches that one should perform duty for the sake of duty alone, and (3.30) states that all actions should be dedicated to the Supreme. The Bhagavad-gita (5.10) explains that this transforms ordinary work into spiritual practice and incurs no karmic bondage.