Bhagavad Gita



ದೂರೇಣ ಹ್ಯವರಂ ಕರ್ಮ ಬುದ್ಧಿಯೋಗಾದ್ ಧನಂಜಯ ।
ಬುದ್ಧೌ ಶರಣಮನ್ವಿಚ್ಛ ಕೃಪಣಾಃ ಫಲಹೇತವಃ ॥೪೯॥
dūreṇa hyavaraṃ karma buddhiyogād dhanaṃjaya |
buddhau śaraṇamanviccha kṛpaṇāḥ phalahetavaḥ ||49||

Gist of the sloka:
O Dhannanjaya, the path of knowledge is much superior to path of action. Therefore, prefer the path of knowledge and remain there. Those who seek rewards remain a niggards.
Explanation:
Lord Krishna is clearly indicating that the path of knowledge [gynana] is much superior to the path of karma and it needs to be followed to fullest extent. Those who keep seeking rewards for their karmas, are in pitiable conditions. Those who follow the gynana elevate themselves.
There are some who indicate the path of karma [karma yoga] remains superior, some others who claim the path of knowledge [gynana yoga] remains superior. Some indicate both the yoga’s are like two wheels of a chariot and are equal. This contradictory philosophies leads to varied interpretation and confusions.
Lord Krishna is very clear in indicating that the path of the knowledge [gynana yoga] is superior and karma yoga is inferior but a necessary first step to achieve gynana yoga. To perform the correct karma yoga, one must have right knowledge. This cohabitation between the two is necessary to enhance the knowledge one has. On the contrary performing the karma without right knowledge is a entirely wasted effort.
To raise oneself, one must perform the right karmas [with right knowledge]. This leads towards God realization. One should not become egoistic after reaching this state. One should realize that Lord is the only refuge and sole protector. This conviction is the state of surrender.
If in difficulty, one should believe the above message and pray to him along the following lines “O Lord, please show me the way out of this difficulty”. Lord would then certainly provide us with a way out of the difficulty. Again, one should accept whatever the Lord provides as the solution, as his blessings, without demanding one.