Illustration for Bhagavad Gita chapter 16 verse 17
Chapter 16 · Daivasura Sampad Vibhaga Yoga

Meaningful vs. Looking Meaningful · An Honest Check

आत्मसम्भाविताः स्तब्धा धनमानमदान्विताः । यजन्ते नामयज्ञैस्ते दम्भेनाविधिपूर्वकम् ॥

ātma-sambhāvitāḥ stabdhā dhana-māna-madānvitāḥ yajante nāma-yajñais te dambhenāvidhi-pūrvakam

Meaning

"Self-conceited, stubborn, filled with the pride of wealth and honor, they perform sacrifices in name only, hypocritically, without following proper principles."

Explanation

There's a difference between doing something meaningful and doing something merely to look meaningful — and most of us can feel, if we're honest, which one we're actually doing.

Today's Life Lesson

Before an act of devotion or charity today, ask honestly whether it's meaningful to you or just meant to be seen.

More verses to reflect on