Verse 17.15 : Sraddhatraya Vibhaga Yoga "Three Divisions of Faith"
Verse 15 of 28
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The Translation
“Speech that does not cause agitation, which is truthful, pleasant, and beneficial, and the regular study of scriptures—these are declared to constitute austerity of speech.”
Commentary & Insights
Krishna defines the austerity of speech (vāṅmayaṃ tapaḥ). In ancient Vedic culture, the spoken word (vak) was considered a sacred force. Words once spoken could not be recalled, making verbal self-discipline a highly valued virtue.
Practical Application
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Before speaking, ask yourself: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? Is it helpful?
Reflections & Notes
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Self-Reflection Prompts
- How often do we speak the truth in a harsh, hurtful way? How can we combine truth (satyam) with pleasantness (priyam) and benefit (hitam)?
- Why is regular reading or self-study (svādhyāya) considered a vital discipline for speech?
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17.15
अनुद्वेगकरं वाक्यं सत्यं प्रियहितं च यत्
Shankara comments that speech must possess all these four attributes simultaneously. If speech is truthful but causes anxiety, or if it is pleasant but false, it is not vocal austerity. Vocal austerity also includes chanting of sacred texts (svadhyaya) which purifies the vocal organ and mind.