Chapter 16 • Verse 17
आत्मसंभाविताः स्तब्धा धनमानमदान्विताः। यजन्ते नामयज्ञैस्ते दम्भेनाविधिपूर्वकम्॥
ātma-sambhāvitāḥ stabdhā dhana-māna-madānvitāḥ yajante nāma-yajñais te dambhenāvidhi-pūrvakam
Meaning
Self-conceited, stubborn, filled with pride and intoxication of wealth, they perform sacrifices in name only with hypocrisy, disregarding the scriptural injunctions.
The demoniac are self-important, obstinate, drunk on wealth and pride. They perform religious acts for show only, hypocritically, without following proper guidelines. Their spirituality is fake, designed to impress.
Strength Reflection
"I practice spiritual disciplines sincerely, not for show or without proper guidance."
Devotional Surrender
O Lord, let my worship be genuine, humble, and in accordance with truth.