Chapter 17 • Verse 18
सत्कारमानपूजार्थं तपो दम्भेन चैव यत्। क्रियते तदिह प्रोक्तं राजसं चलमध्रुवम्॥
satkāra-māna-pūjārthaṁ tapo dambhena chaiva yat kriyate tad iha proktaṁ rājasaṁ chalam adhruvam
Meaning
Austerity performed for the sake of gaining respect, honor, and reverence, and with hypocrisy — is said to be rajasic, unstable, and impermanent.
Austerity done for reputation, honor, worship from others, or with hypocrisy is rajasic. Its results are unstable and temporary. When ego drives discipline, the benefits fade quickly.
Strength Reflection
"I practice austerity for spiritual growth, not for recognition or praise."
Devotional Surrender
O Lord, purify my disciplines from the desire for honor and recognition.