Chapter 17, Verse 22
अदेशकाले यद्दानमपात्रेभ्यश्च दीयते | असत्कृतमवज्ञातं तत्तामसमुदाहृतम् ॥22॥
adeśakāle yaddānam apātrebhyaś ca dīyate | asat-kṛtam avajñātaṃ tat tāmasam udāhṛtam ||
"Charity given at an improper place and time, to unworthy persons, without respect, and with contempt, is said to be in the mode of ignorance."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 17.22 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 17.22 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
Charity in the mode of ignorance (Tamas) is characterized by a complete lack of discernment. It involves giving at the wrong time or place, to people who will use the gift for harmful purposes (apātrebhyaḥ), or giving with a condescending and disrespectful attitude (avajñātam). Such 'giving' does not elevate the giver or the receiver; rather, it creates negative karmic ties because the giver is responsible for the subsequent misuse of the gift and the harm caused by their own arrogance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 17.22?
Charity given at an improper place and time, to unworthy persons, without respect, and with contempt, is said to be in the mode of ignorance.