Sri Krishna is explaining to Arjuna the three different qualities that are behind people’s actions and behaviour. This is in response to Arjuna’s question about people who generally live their life without any knowledge or adherence to the scriptures.
After talking about the preferences for foods, Sri Krishna says in the offerings, sacrifices and work that people do too the three qualities express themselves. Those who confine their actions according to the laws of the universe, who expect no personal gain for themselves and do it because the work has to be done are Sattvic in nature. Sacrifices, donations, charity or work done with a view to getting a desired result in return, or that which is done for pompous demonstration is Rajasic in nature.
Basically the sacrifices mentioned here talk about the fire rituals or yagnas, but on a broader basis it can be understood as any kind of activity done for the public. The Tamasic person does work which do not conform to rules and which he is not necessarily supposed to do, where no food is offered or no service fees are paid, devoid of faith and devotion.
The qualities of a Satvik person outlined is a benchmark for the attitude that we need to have for success in life. Worshipping the gods and the knowers of the truth, the teacher and elders, cleanliness and straightforwardness, practice of Brahmacharya or seeing the divine in all actions and thoughts, not hurting others by thought, words or deeds, is considered to be the austerity of the body.
The Tapasya of speech consists of speaking those words that do not irritate, the truth and that are pleasing to others, study of spiritual literature and chanting of mantras and about the supreme self.
There is a third kind of Tapas and it is of the mind. Keeping the mind cheerful and calm, practising mental silence and control of the mind and senses, purity of thoughts and feelings within is called the austerity of the mind. Even if we may keep our outer actions and words on check, it is quite easy to think contrarily with the mind. Sri Krishna exhorts to purify our feelings towards others — that is to evoke love and compassion towards all beings.
Performing the three types of austerities with no expectations whatsoever is called Satvik Tapasya. Performing them for fame, honour or adoration, with pomp and splendour— basically making a big show fuss out of simple things such as speaking the truth or having goodwill for others or chanting prayers and mantras is called Rajasic Tapasya.
The three forms of Tapasya when it becomes a superstitious adherence to rules, self-mortification and for hurting others, then it is Tamasic nature. For instance, practicing silence is Tapas, but when it is used to hurt others, then such an austerity is Tamasic. ;
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