Verse 17.1 : Sraddhatraya Vibhaga Yoga "Three Divisions of Faith"
“Arjuna said: O Krishna, what is the state of those who do not follow the principles of scripture but worship with faith? Is it in goodness (Sattva), passion (Rajas), or ignorance (Tamas)?”
Arjuna begins Chapter 17 by asking a question about a common human dilemma. Krishna had concluded the previous chapter by asserting that scriptures (shastra) are the ultimate authority for action. Arjuna now asks about those who lack access to or knowledge of scriptural rules but still worship with sincere faith. This addresses the status of folk religion, personal intuition, and non-canonical spiritual paths in Vedic society.
Reflect on one belief you hold deeply, asking whether it is based on tradition, personal conviction, or universal wisdom.
- Can a person be deeply spiritual or ethical without belonging to any formal religion or reading ancient scriptures?
- How do you distinguish between blind belief and constructive, intuitive faith (śraddhā)?
Have you finished this lesson?
Mark this verse as studied to track your progress and see your learning journey on the dashboard.
Shankara comments that Arjuna's question relates to people who do not study the Vedas (due to lack of opportunity or capacity) but imitate the behavior of elders with faith. He wants to know if such imitation can produce purification of the mind.