Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 17.7

“The food each prefers is also threefold, as are sacrifice, austerity, and charity; hear their distinctions.”
Key Teaching: Food, sacrifice, austerity, and charity are threefold, based on gunas.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna states that food, sacrifice, austerity, and charity are threefold, based on gunas, and will explain their distinctions. This verse, continuing 17.6, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna introduces classifications, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s sattvic practices (1.28–46) align with this, contrasting Duryodhana’s tamasic acts (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (14.5–9), emphasizing gunas’ influence, and builds on demonic resolve (17.6). Krishna sets up further analysis.

Philosophically, the verse introduces gunabased distinctions, a theme refined with teachings on gunas (14.5). Arjuna’s path is clarified by understanding these distinctions. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through discernment. The verse connects to teachings on nature (14.5).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s practices, where gunas shape actions. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to discern practices, aligning with moksha. The introduction resonates with Arjuna’s quest for clarity.