Bhagavad Gita
Chapter 17 Verse 3
Śhraddhā Traya Vibhāg Yog
Verse 3
Audio Available
BG 17.3
Peaceful
सत्त्वानुरूपा सर्वस्य श्रद्धा भवति भारत।श्रद्धामयोऽयं पुरुषो यो यच्छ्रद्धः स एव सः।।17.3।।
sattvānurūpā sarvasya śhraddhā bhavati bhārata śhraddhā-mayo ‘yaṁ puruṣho yo yach-chhraddhaḥ sa eva saḥ
Word Meanings
| sattva-anurūpā | conforming to the nature of one’s mind |
| sarvasya | all |
| śhraddhā | faith |
| bhavati | is |
| bhārata | Arjun, the scion of Bharat |
| śhraddhāmayaḥ | possessing faith |
| ayam | that |
| puruṣhaḥ | human being |
| yaḥ | who |
| yat-śhraddhaḥ | whatever the nature of their faith |
| saḥ | their |
| eva | verily |
| saḥ | they |
Translation
The faith of each is in accordance with their nature, O Arjuna. People consist of their faith; as a person's faith is, so are they.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse teaches that our faith reflects our inner nature. What we believe and trust grows out of our character, habits, and priorities.
Because faith guides attention and action, it becomes our identity. Calm, clear faith leads to steady, kind behavior; fearful or narrow faith leads to anxious or limited actions.
Life Application
- Notice what you truly trust by watching your daily choices and reactions.
- Small habits (reading, prayer, honest work, serving others) can change the kind of faith you hold.
- Choose influences—people, books, media—that support the faith you want to become.
Reflection Question
Which belief right now most shapes the way I act?