Chapter 17 Verse 4

The sattvic, or pure, men worship the gods; the rajasic, or passionate, worship the yakshas and rakshasas; the others, the tamasic or deluded people, worship ghosts and hosts of nature-spirits.

Core Meaning

This verse says people’s devotion shows the quality of their heart. Those in goodness (sattva) revere higher, uplifting ideals (called "gods"); those driven by desire and power (rajas) worship things that promise strength, status, or pleasure; those clouded by ignorance (tamas) turn to fear, superstition, or dark forces.

“Worship” here means where you put your attention and trust. The object of devotion shapes your thoughts and actions, so what you admire becomes what you live by. Spiritually, the verse teaches that inner qualities determine outer choices, and changing one’s inner state changes what one seeks.

The practical spiritual point is: move toward clarity, self-control, and service to adopt higher aims. By cultivating calmness, study, and selfless action, you naturally shift from fear and craving to peaceful, wise ways of living.

Life Application

• Notice whom or what you praise, follow, or seek for comfort—this reveals your dominant inner quality.
• Practice small daily habits that build goodness: simple meditation, honest work, reading uplifting teachings, and helping others.
• Replace fear-based or flashy role models with people or ideals that promote wisdom, compassion, and steady effort.

Reflection Question

Who do I turn to in stress or need, and what does that choice say about my inner state?