Chapter 17 Verse 23
Śhraddhā Traya Vibhāg Yog
तत्सदिति निर्देशो ब्रह्मणस्त्रिविधः स्मृतः।ब्राह्मणास्तेन वेदाश्च यज्ञाश्च विहिताः पुरा।।17.23।।
oṁ tat sad iti nirdeśho brahmaṇas tri-vidhaḥ smṛitaḥ brāhmaṇās tena vedāśh cha yajñāśh cha vihitāḥ purā
Word Meanings
| om tat sat | syllables representing aspects of transcendence |
| iti | thus |
| nirdeśhaḥ | symbolic representatives |
| brahmaṇaḥ | the Supreme Absolute Truth |
| tri-vidhaḥ | of three kinds |
| smṛitaḥ | have been declared |
| brāhmaṇāḥ | the priests |
| tena | from them |
| vedāḥ | scriptures |
| cha | and |
| yajñāḥ | sacrifice |
| cha | and |
| vihitāḥ | came about |
| purā | from the beginning of creation |
Translation
"Om Tat Sat": This has been declared to be the triple designation of Brahman. By that, the Brahmanas, the Vedas, and the sacrifices were created formerly.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
"Om Tat Sat" are simple syllables that point to the same ultimate reality. They are not just sounds; they act as reminders of the source and truth behind everything.
From these reminders came the supports for spiritual life: brahmanas (teachers and guides), the Vedas (sacred knowledge), and yajñas (sacrificial acts or offerings). These arose to help people remember and live in harmony with that reality.
The verse teaches that truth needs expression in guidance, learning, and action. Saying or reflecting on "Om Tat Sat" helps keep study, worship, and daily work connected to a deeper purpose rather than personal gain.
Life Application
- Pause briefly before work or study—say or think "Om Tat Sat" to center yourself and remember your deeper purpose.
- Treat teachers and teachings with respect as tools for growth; apply what you learn with humility.
- Do daily tasks as simple offerings: act sincerely and let go of attachment to outcomes.
Reflection Question
How can I make one routine action today a small offering connected to a deeper purpose?