Bhagavad Gita · Verse 17.23
Chapter 17: Shraddhatraya Vibhaga Yoga (श्रद्धात्रयविभागयोगः)
(The Supreme Lord said)
ॐ तत्सदिति निर्देशो ब्रह्मणस्त्रिविधः स्मृतः । ब्राह्मणास्तेन वेदाश्च यज्ञाश्च विहिताः पुरा ॥२३॥
oṃ tatsaditi nirdeśo brahmaṇastrividhaḥ smṛtaḥ | brāhmaṇāstena vedāśca yajñāśca vihitāḥ purā ||23||
Complete Shloka Translation
Om, Tat, Sat is remembered as the threefold designation of Brahman. By it the brahmanas, Vedas and sacrifices were established in ancient times.
Word-by-Word Translation (Padartha / Anvaya)
| Sanskrit Term (पद) | IAST Roman | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ॐ तत् सत् | om tat sat | OM TAT SAT |
| इति | iti | thus |
| निर्देशः | nirdeśaḥ | the threefold designation and mantra |
| ब्रह्मणः | brahmaṇaḥ | of the Supreme Reality (Brahman) |
| त्रि-विधः | tri-vidhaḥ | threefold |
| स्मृतः | smṛtaḥ | is remembered in the scriptures |
OM TAT SAT
thus
the threefold designation and mantra
of the Supreme Reality (Brahman)
threefold
is remembered in the scriptures
Detailed Commentary & Meaningful Thoughts
The chapter turns to sacred designations used in practice. Brahman is the ultimate principle, distinct from Brahma as a deity.
Philosophical Reflection & Self-Inquiry
"What reminds you to connect action with a deeper purpose?"
Inquiry Question to Ponder:
What reminds you to connect action with a deeper purpose?
Modern Life Implementation (Practical Real-Life Application)
Apply this verse to master daily focus: anchor your consciousness in higher values, let go of anxious attachment to results, and act with integrity and kindness in every endeavor.