The Yoga of the Three Divisions of Faith
Sraddhatraya Vibhaga Yoga
Krishna explains how the three modes of nature influence faith, worship, food, and sacrifice.
Krishna explains that every human being has an inherent faith, which can be of three types: Sattvic, Rajasic, or Tamasic. These three qualities also affect the food one eats, the sacrifices one performs, and the charity one gives.
Key Takeaways
- Food affects the mind; choosing fresh and simple food is best
- Giving without expecting anything in return is true charity
- The mantra 'Om Tat Sat' purifies actions and connects them to the Divine
Chapter 17 - The Yoga of the Three Divisions of Faith
Common questions and insights about this chapter
Faith is of three types based on one's nature: Sattvic (goodness) faith worships the gods and seeks higher knowledge; Rajasic (passion) faith worships yakṣas and rākṣasas for power and material gains; Tamasic (ignorance) faith worships ghosts and spirits.
Sattvic foods (wholesome, nourishing, tasty) are preferred by the pure. Rajasic foods (excessively bitter, sour, salty, spicy) are liked by the passionate. Tamasic foods (stale, tasteless, putrid, impure) are consumed by the ignorant.
Austerity of body includes worship, cleanliness, celibacy, and non-violence. Austerity of speech means truthful, beneficial, pleasant words and scriptural recitation. Austerity of mind includes serenity, gentleness, silence, self-control, and purity. All should be performed without expectation of reward.
These three words represent the Absolute Truth and are used to sanctify acts of sacrifice, charity, and austerity. 'Om' represents Brahman, 'Tat' means 'That' (the ultimate reality), and 'Sat' means 'eternal truth.' Together they invoke the Supreme Reality.
Chapter 17 Quiz
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