Meaning
Such a self-realized individual has nothing to gain from actions {such as sacrificial acts in a Vedic yajna for wish-fulfillment} and nothing to lose by abstaining from actions {such as sacrificial acts in a yajna}. They do not depend on any being {such as the gods indicated by Prajāpati in verse 3:12, except the Ultimate Creator of all beings—God-the-Supreme}. Nor do they cultivate a self-interest relationship with anyone for any interest of theirs. (3:18)
Commentary
This verse urges against pursuing spiritual paths with the intention of personal gain. Vedic fire-yajnas mostly aim at fulfilling worldly desires such as progeny, power, and affluence. Implicitly, the verse advocates seeking refuge in the Supreme God and relying solely on Him, offering unconditional love. Later, in verse 9:22, God elucidates that for a selfless devotee, God Himself provides what they lack and safeguards what they possess.^2
Sanskrit
नैव तस्य कृतेनार्थो नाकृतेनेह कश्चन ।
न चास्य सर्वभूतेषु कश्चिदर्थव्यपाश्रयः ॥ 3:18 ॥
Word Separation
न एव तस्य कृतेन अर्थः न अ-कृतेन इह कश्चन,
न च अस्य सर्व-भूतेषु कश्चित् अर्थ-व्यपाश्रयः।।