Bhagavad Gita · Verse 17.9
Chapter 17: Shraddhatraya Vibhaga Yoga (श्रद्धात्रयविभागयोगः)
(The Supreme Lord said)
कट्वम्ललवणात्युष्णतीक्ष्णरूक्षविदाहिनः । आहारा राजसस्येष्टा दुःखशोकामयप्रदाः ॥९॥
kaṭvamlalavaṇātyuṣṇatīkṣṇarūkṣavidāhinaḥ | āhārā rājasasyeṣṭā duḥkhaśokāmayapradāḥ ||9||
Complete Shloka Translation
Foods that are excessively bitter, sour, salty, hot, pungent, dry and burning are preferred by rajasic people and bring pain, distress and illness.
Word-by-Word Translation (Padartha / Anvaya)
| Sanskrit Term (पद) | IAST Roman | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| तीक्ष्ण | tīkṣṇa | sharp or pungent |
| दुःख | duḥkha | pain or sorrow |
| कट्वम्ललवणात्युष्णतीक्ष्णरूक्षविदाहिनः | kaṭvamlalavaṇātyuṣṇatīkṣṇarūkṣavidāhinaḥ | [term] in context of Foods that are excessively bit... |
| आहारा | āhārā | [term] in context of Foods that are excessively bit... |
| राजसस्येष्टा | rājasasyeṣṭā | [term] in context of Foods that are excessively bit... |
| दुःखशोकामयप्रदाः | duḥkhaśokāmayapradāḥ | [term] in context of Foods that are excessively bit... |
sharp or pungent
pain or sorrow
[term] in context of Foods that are excessively bit...
[term] in context of Foods that are excessively bit...
[term] in context of Foods that are excessively bit...
[term] in context of Foods that are excessively bit...
Detailed Commentary & Meaningful Thoughts
The emphasis is on excess and agitation. The traditional warning should not be turned into condemnation of an entire cuisine.
Philosophical Reflection & Self-Inquiry
"When does the search for stimulation become excessive?"
Inquiry Question to Ponder:
When does the search for stimulation become excessive?
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.