Chapter 17 Verse 18

The austerity that is practiced with the aim of gaining good reception, honor, and worship, and with hypocrisy, is said to be Rajasic, unstable, and transient.

Core Meaning

This verse warns that austerity or religious practices done to gain respect, honor, or worship, or done with show and hypocrisy, belong to the Rajasic mode. Such acts are driven by desire for recognition, not by real inner change.

Because the motive is outward praise, these practices are unstable and short-lived. They may bring temporary approval, but they do not purify the heart or lead to lasting spiritual growth. Authentic transformation depends on honest intent, not on the applause of others.

True spiritual effort focuses on self-control, humility, and inner clarity. When practice is sincere and free from vanity, it helps steady the mind and leads to deeper progress.

Life Application

• Pause before performing any spiritual or charitable act: check if you seek inner growth or public praise.
• Practice quietly when you can—meditate, help, or donate without announcing it.
• If you must share, speak about lessons learned rather than seeking compliments.

Reflection Question

Am I doing this practice to change myself, or to be seen and praised by others?