Chapter 17, Verse 23
ॐ तत्सदिति निर्देशो ब्रह्मणस्त्रिविध: स्मृत: | ब्राह्मणास्तेन वेदाश्च यज्ञाश्च विहिता: पुरा ॥23॥
om tat sad iti nirdeśo brahmaṇas trividhaḥ smṛtaḥ | brāhmaṇās tena vedāś ca yajñāś ca vihitāḥ purā
"'Om Tat Sat' is declared as the threefold designation of the Absolute Truth (Brahman). From these, the priestly class, the Vedas, and sacrifice were ordained in ancient times."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 17.23 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 17.23 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
This pivotal verse introduces the sacred syllable 'Om Tat Sat' as the ultimate pointer to Brahman (the Supreme Reality). Lord Krishna explains that these three words signify different dimensions of the Absolute. 'Om' represents the primordial sound and the presence of God; 'Tat' (That) represents the detachment from fruit and dedication to the Supreme; 'Sat' represents the eternal truth and goodness. Historically, this designation is the source from which spiritual knowledge (Vedas) and selfless action (Yajña) were manifest, serving as a bridge to transcend the three Gunas (modes of nature).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 17.23?
'Om Tat Sat' is declared as the threefold designation of the Absolute Truth (Brahman). From these, the priestly class, the Vedas, and sacrifice were ordained in ancient times.