Ch.17: The three divisions of faith

Sanskrit Verses

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At the beginning of this chapter, Arjuna inquires about the position of those who worship God with faith. In reply to this the Lord describes the three types of faith based on the three GuNaas and says that the character of a man is determined by his faith. Man’s faith is determined by the dominance of one or the other of the three qualities of nature Sattva, Rajas and Tamas. His preference in respect of objects of worship, food, activities etc., will depend upon the Shraddha. Whatever is done without pride but is motivated by the good of others and has the grace of god in mind is Sattvika. Whatever is sought or done with desire, vanity and self- gratification is Rajasa. And Whatever is done indifferently without evil motives thoughtlessly and in grumbling spirit is Tamasa. Such conduct is futile in respect of man’s higher evolution. Verses 23 to 28 deal with the holy syllables OM, TAT and SAT which indicate the sacrificial mentality. Whatever a man does as offering to god, uttering these syllables promotes spiritual progress. All sacrificial rites, all austerities and charity done have no effect if not supported by faith.

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