Bhagavad Gita Chapter 17 Verse 19 Meaning

That austerity which is practised out of a foolish notion, with self-torture, or for the purpose of destroying another, is declared to be of the Tamasic nature.

BG 17.19

मूढग्राहेणात्मनो यत्पीडया क्रियते तपः।परस्योत्सादनार्थं वा तत्तामसमुदाहृतम्

mūḍha-grāheṇātmano yat pīḍayā kriyate tapaḥ parasyotsādanārthaṁ vā tat tāmasam udāhṛitam

Meaning in English

That austerity which is practised out of a foolish notion, with self-torture, or for the purpose of destroying another, is declared to be of the Tamasic nature.

हिंदी अर्थ (Hindi Meaning)

जो तप मूढ़तापूर्वक हठसे अपनेको पीड़ा देकर अथवा दूसरोंको कष्ट देनेके लिये किया जाता है, वह तप तामस कहा गया है।

Explanation & Life Application

This verse from Chapter 17 of the Bhagavad Gita offers profound wisdom for modern life. As part of The Yoga of Threefold Faith (Sraddhatraya Vibhaga Yoga), it teaches about Faith and Food.

The essence of this teaching encourages us to focus on our actions and duties rather than anxiety about outcomes. In today's fast-paced world, this timeless wisdom offers a path to inner peace.

— Explained by the Nitya Team

When to Apply This Verse

  • When feeling anxious about results at work or exams
  • Before starting a new project or challenge
  • When perfectionism causes stress

Related Verses

← Back to Chapter 17: The Yoga of Threefold Faith

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