“Whatever is sacrificed, given, or done, and whatever austerity is practiced without faith, is called Asat, O Partha; it is naught here or hereafter.”
Key Teaching: Acts without faith are Asat, yielding no benefit.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Shraddha Traya Vibhaga Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna concludes that acts of sacrifice, charity, or austerity without faith are called Asat, yielding no benefit here or hereafter. This verse, concluding Chapter 17, addresses Arjuna’s understanding of faith (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna emphasizes faith, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, Shraddha Traya Vibhaga Yoga, as he concludes faith’s importance, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, and Karma Yoga, as he addresses action, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s faith (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s faithlessness (1.3–11). Krishna’s teaching supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Jnana Yoga (17.3), stressing faith’s necessity.
Philosophically, this verse addresses faith’s essential role, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on shraddha (17.3). Arjuna’s understanding is completed by Krishna’s guidance on faith’s value. The themes of Shraddha Traya Vibhaga Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Karma Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on faithful action for liberation.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their conclusive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s faith, where Asat acts are futile. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine faith, aligning with liberation.
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