Shloka : 18 / 28

In this verse, Lord Krishna explains the unstable nature of austerity characterized by Rajas. From a Jyotish perspective, the Capricorn Rasi and the Uttara Ashadha Nakshatra are influenced by Saturn. The Saturn graha can reflect one's career and financial status. In professional life, many may perform austerity to achieve a higher position, but this will only provide temporary happiness. Financial stability will not be lasting when austerity is performed for selfish purposes. In the family, it is crucial to act with a sense of responsibility. The Saturn graha signifies struggles and challenges, but at the same time, it provides lasting progress through responsible actions. Therefore, through this verse, Lord Krishna emphasizes that austerity should be performed for true spiritual advancement. In career and financial matters, one should avoid selfishness for long-term progress. In family welfare, harmony arises through responsible actions. This way, one can attain lasting happiness in life.

In this verse, Lord Krishna explains the three types of austerity. When such austerity is performed to gain visible love or respect, it is indeed characterized by the Rajas quality. Such austerity is done for selfish purposes and for the sake of reputation. It is not permanent because it does not cultivate true self-respect or spiritual well-being. The austerities performed lead only to temporary fame. True austerity should be performed with inner devotion, without any expectation. Here, Lord Krishna elucidates the true purpose of austerity.

From the perspective of Vedanta, austerity should be performed solely for the purification of the soul. Austerity characterized by Rajas reveals unnecessary desires and an uncontrolled mind. It is a result of the unstable nature of human beings. At times, human pride and greed can turn austerity into selfishness. A true spiritual life is a journey towards the purity of inner awareness. Austerity helps to eliminate the impurities of karma. Vedanta states that one should act in pursuit of spiritual progress, not for comfort or fame. Such austerity leads to spiritual growth.

In today's world, many may perform austerity to achieve a position in business, wealth, and society. This leads to a stressful life. To protect family welfare, one must avoid selfishness. In the business world, we desire to attain status and position, but failing to achieve it can cause mental stress. Even when under pressure from EMI or debt, excessive thinking about money reduces mental satisfaction. Today, many follow wrong paths to gain fame on social media. However, long-term health and mental peace are the true paths to happiness. Good eating habits and a healthy lifestyle contribute to longevity. Parents acting with a sense of responsibility create harmony in the family. One must live with the understanding that a stable state of mind is true wealth.