The Functions of Modal Verbs in the English Translation of Chapter 3 (Karma-Yoga) of the Bhagavad Gita by A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada

Abstract

This article delves into the nuanced use of modal verbs in the English translation of Chapter 3 (Karma-yoga) of the Bhagavad Gita, as rendered by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Modal verbs, integral to the text’s theological and philosophical essence, are analyzed through the frameworks of deontic and epistemic modality, as well as their role in expressing divine will and spiritual aspirations. The study explores how Prabhupada’s linguistic choices serve to bridge the original Sanskrit meanings with English-speaking audiences’ understanding, enabling a multifaceted interpretation of the scripture’s teachings.

The research identifies a predominant use of deontic modality to articulate duties, ethical imperatives, and prescribed actions central to the philosophy of Karma-yoga. These modal verbs underscore the inevitability and significance of action in accordance with divine will and human responsibility. Epistemic modality, though less frequent, captures moments of spiritual inquiry and acknowledges the uncertainty inherent in human perception of divine plans. Additionally, modal expressions tied to divine will are found to reinforce the interconnectedness of human agency and spiritual destiny, a recurring theme in Prabhupada’s translation.

The findings highlight the critical role of modality in shaping the interpretative landscape of religious discourse. Prabhupada’s translation demonstrates how modal verbs function not only as grammatical tools but also as mechanisms for theological expression, balancing prescriptive teachings with aspirational guidance. The study concludes that the strategic use of modality in Karma-yoga enhances its accessibility and spiritual resonance, providing a pathway for deeper engagement with the text’s universal principles.

This analysis contributes to the broader study of linguistic features in sacred texts, offering insights for scholars of translation studies, linguistics, and comparative religion. By examining the interplay between language and theology in this translation, the study underscores the transformative potential of modal verbs in rendering complex spiritual concepts comprehensible across cultural and linguistic divides.