For action (karma) is by far inferior, To the discipline of understanding (buddhiyoga), O Winner of wealth (Dhanañjaya). Seek refuge in understanding (buddhi); Pitiful are those whose motive is the fruit.
Arjuna, action is far inferior to the discipline of understanding; so seek refuge in understanding—pitiful are men drawn by fruits of action.
(49) For lower far is [the path of] active work [for its own sake] than the spiritual exercise of the soul (buddhi-yoga). Seek refuge in the soul! How pitiful are they whose motive is the fruit [of works]!
2.49 O Dhanañjaya, indeed, action is quite inferior to the yoga of wisdom. Take resort to wisdom. Those who thirst for rewards are pitiable.
2.49 Action with attachment is far inferior, O Arjuna, to action done with evenness of mind. Seek refuge in evenness of mind. Miserable are they who act with a motive for results.
2.49 Far lower than the Yoga of wisdom is action, O Arjuna. Seek thou refuge in wisdom; wretched are they whose motive is the fruit.