अभिसंधाय तु फलं दम्भार्थमपि चैव यत्।इज्यते भरतश्रेष्ठ तं यज्ञं विद्धि राजसम्
Krishna is addressing Arjuna directly, guiding him to understand the nature of sacrifices performed with ulterior motives. He calls Arjuna 'best of the Bharatas,' emphasizing the importance of the teaching and Arjuna's noble lineage. Krishna aims to clarify how certain sacrifices, even though outwardly correct, may be tainted by impure intentions.
Giving or discipline can serve care, display, or pressure. Before helping, ask what is genuinely useful, whether consent is present, and whether you expect recognition in return.
Am I responding to a real need or to the image I want to create?
Write a private reflectionGo deeper into this verse
What does 'for the sake of mere show' indicate about the motivation behind a Rajasika yajna?
Performing a sacrifice for the sake of mere show means the person is motivated by vanity or a desire to impress others, rather than by selfless devotion. This kind of action lacks sincerity and is driven by ego or social recognition. Such motivation diminishes the spiritual value of the yajna, making it worldly and self-centered.
Which two motives are specifically mentioned as characterizing a Rajasika sacrifice in this teaching on Arjuna?
The verse specifically mentions two motives: performing the sacrifice for show (dambha) and with an expectation for its fruit (phalam). These intentions mark the sacrifice as Rajasika, as they are rooted in personal gain and ostentation rather than pure devotion.
How does Krishna distinguish between Rajasika and other types of yajna in this teaching?
Krishna distinguishes a Rajasika yajna by its underlying motives: it is done either to display one's piety or to obtain specific personal rewards. This sets it apart from other types of yajna, such as Sattvika, which are performed selflessly and with purity of intent. The Rajasika form lacks the detachment and sincerity valued in spiritual practice.
Why is seeking the fruit of a sacrifice considered an inferior motivation according to Krishna's teaching here?
Seeking the fruit of a sacrifice ties the performer to desires and expectations, fostering attachment and reinforcing the ego. Krishna teaches that true spiritual actions should be performed as an offering, without concern for personal gain. When actions are motivated by results, they lead to further entanglement in the cycle of desire and dissatisfaction, rather than liberation and peace.
The sacrifice offered with a view verily to fruit, and also indeed for self-glorification, O best of the Bhâratas; know thou that to be of passion.
What do “thy” and “thou” mean?
“Thy” means “your”; “thou” and “thee” mean “you”; “thine” means “yours.” This historical translation is preserved as published.