Bhagavad Gita Chapter 17 Verse 21 Meaning

And, that gift which is given with the intention of receiving something in return, or expecting a reward, or begrudgingly, is considered to be Rajasic.

BG 17.21

यत्तु प्रत्युपकारार्थं फलमुद्दिश्य वा पुनः।दीयते च परिक्लिष्टं तद्दानं राजसं स्मृतम्

yat tu pratyupakārārthaṁ phalam uddiśhya vā punaḥ dīyate cha parikliṣhṭaṁ tad dānaṁ rājasaṁ smṛitam

Meaning in English

And, that gift which is given with the intention of receiving something in return, or expecting a reward, or begrudgingly, is considered to be Rajasic.

हिंदी अर्थ (Hindi Meaning)

किन्तु जो दान प्रत्युपकारके लिये अथवा फलप्राप्तिका उद्देश्य बनाकर फिर क्लेशपूर्वक दिया जाता है, वह दान राजस कहा जाता 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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