THE BHAGAVAD GITA Chapter 17
Excerpts from God Talks with Arjuna: The Bhagavad Gita
by Paramahansa Yogananda
Three Kinds of Faith
XVII:18-19
(18) Austerities are said to be rajasic, unstable and fleeting, when practiced/or the purpose of ostentation and for gaining men's recognition, honor, and homage.
(19) Tamasic austerities are those based on ignorance or foolishness or performed for self-torture or for injuring others.
XVII:20
The good or sattvic gift is one made for the sake of righteousness, without expectation of anything in return, and is bestowed in proper time and place on a deserving person.
XVII:23
"Aum-Tat-Sat" is considered to be the triple designation of Brahman (God). By this power were created, in the beginning, the Brahmins (knowers of Brahman), the Vedas, and the sacrificial rites. [—Commentary]
XVII:24
Therefore the acts of the followers of Brahman—sacrifice, gift-giving, and austerities as enjoined by the scriptures—are always started with the chanting of "Aum." [—Commentary]
XVII:65
Absorb thy mind in Me; become My devotee; resign all things to Me; bow down to Me. Thou art dear to Me, so in truth do I promise thee: Thou shalt attain Me! [—Commentary]
