Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 17.13

“Sacrifice without scriptural rules, without mantras, offerings, faith, or proper rites is tamasic.”
Key Teaching: Tamasic sacrifice lacks scriptural basis and faith.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Karma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes tamasic sacrifice as lacking scriptural rules, mantras, offerings, faith, or proper rites. This verse, continuing 17.12, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna defines tamasic sacrifice, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he warns of bondage, and Karma Yoga, as he critiques actions, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s improper acts (1.3–11) reflect tamasic sacrifice, contrasting Arjuna’s discipline (1.28–46). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (14.8) and Karma Yoga (2.47), condemning faithless acts. Krishna builds on rajasic sacrifice (17.12), highlighting tamas.

Philosophically, the verse warns against faithless actions, a theme refined with teachings on tamas (14.8). Arjuna’s path is clarified by avoiding tamasic sacrifices. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga warns against bondage. The verse connects to teachings on proper action (2.47).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s impurity, where faithless acts bind. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to act scripturally, aligning with moksha. The description resonates with Arjuna’s disciplined path.