Chapter 17 Verse 19
Śhraddhā Traya Vibhāg Yog
मूढग्राहेणात्मनो यत्पीडया क्रियते तपः।परस्योत्सादनार्थं वा तत्तामसमुदाहृतम्।।17.19।।
mūḍha-grāheṇātmano yat pīḍayā kriyate tapaḥ parasyotsādanārthaṁ vā tat tāmasam udāhṛitam
Word Meanings
| mūḍha | those with confused notions |
| grāheṇa | with endeavor |
| ātmanaḥ | one’s own self |
| yat | which |
| pīḍayā | torturing |
| kriyate | is performed |
| tapaḥ | austerity |
| parasya | of others |
| utsādana-artham | for harming |
| vā | or |
| tat | that |
| tāmasam | in the mode of ignorance |
| udāhṛitam | is described to be |
Translation
That austerity which is practised out of a foolish notion, with self-torture, or for the purpose of destroying another, is declared to be of the Tamasic nature.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
Austerity or spiritual practice that harms your body or mind, or that is done to hurt someone else, comes from ignorance. The verse calls such practice tamasic — born of confusion and darkness, not true wisdom.
When you punish yourself out of guilt, pride, or anger, or use discipline to harm others, it only increases suffering and clouds the mind. Real tapasya should lead to clarity, strength, and compassion, not to self-destruction or cruelty.
True spiritual effort supports life and inner growth. Healthy discipline frees you from harmful habits and helps you act with care toward yourself and others.
Life Application
- Before a practice, check your motive: are you trying to heal and grow, or to punish or win? Choose the former.
- Keep discipline balanced: rest, proper food, steady practice, and kindness to yourself and others.
- Don’t use spirituality to justify cruelty or show superiority; seek honest guidance if your practice leads to harm.
Reflection Question
Am I practicing discipline to heal and grow, or to punish myself or others?