Illustration for Bhagavad Gita chapter 17 verse 6
Chapter 17 · Shraddhatraya Vibhaga Yoga

Care for the Body · Not Punishment as Piety

कर्षयन्तः शरीरस्थं भूतग्राममचेतसः । मां चैवान्तःशरीरस्थं तान्विद्ध्यासुरनिश्चयान् ॥

karṣayantaḥ śarīra-sthaṁ bhūta-grāmam acetasaḥ māṁ caivāntaḥ śarīra-sthaṁ tān viddhy āsura-niścayān

Meaning

"Torturing the elements that make up the body, and Me who dwells within, senselessly — know these to be of demoniac resolve."

Explanation

Mistreating your own body in the name of discipline isn't holiness — this verse is a gentle but firm reminder that real spirituality includes basic care for the body you live in.

Today's Life Lesson

Treat your body with basic kindness today — real spiritual growth doesn't require punishing yourself.

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