CHAPTER 3 · VERSE 35
Bhagavad Gita 3.35
श्रेयान्स्वधर्मो विगुणः परधर्मात्स्वनुष्ठितात्। स्वधर्मे निधनं श्रेयः परधर्मो भयावहः॥
It is far better to perform one's own duty, even if imperfectly, than to perform another's duty perfectly. Destruction in performing one's own duty is better; following another's path is fraught with danger.
Emphasizes authenticity: staying true to one's unique duty (Svadharma) builds character and spiritual strength.