यजन्ते सात्त्विका देवान्यक्षरक्षांसि राजसा: | प्रेतान्भूतगणांश्चान्ये यजन्ते तामसा जना: || 4 || |
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Lord Krishna describes the different types of worship performed by individuals based on their predominant modes of nature.
Sattvic Worship: Individuals possessing sattvic qualities engage in worship directed towards the celestial deities. The sattvic nature is characterized by purity, knowledge, and spiritual illumination. Such individuals focus on worshipping divine beings associated with higher realms and virtues. Their worship is rooted in seeking spiritual growth, self-realization, and union with the divine.
Rajasic Worship: Individuals with rajasic qualities worship the demi-gods and demons. The rajasic nature is characterized by passion, desire, and activity. These individuals seek fulfillment of worldly desires and materialistic gains through their worship. They are often driven by ambitions, power, and sensual pleasures, hence their worship is directed towards beings associated with fulfilling their worldly aspirations.
Tamasic Worship: Individuals influenced by tamasic qualities engage in worship of ghosts and spirits. The tamasic nature is characterized by ignorance, delusion, and inertia. Such individuals are driven by base instincts, fear, and darkness. Their worship is often associated with superstitions, black magic, and rituals aimed at appeasing malevolent forces or seeking personal gains through occult practices.
It is important to note that these descriptions represent the different modes of nature and the corresponding types of worship associated with them. The intent is not to judge or promote any form of worship but to provide an understanding of the diverse approaches people may adopt based on their individual natures.
Lord Krishna’s teachings encourage individuals to transcend the lower modes of nature (rajasic and tamasic) and cultivate sattvic qualities. Sattvic worship, focused on spiritual growth and devotion, is considered the most elevating and conducive to attaining higher consciousness and divine realization.
By understanding the influence of different modes of nature, individuals can reflect upon their own nature and strive to cultivate sattvic qualities, gradually transcending the lower modes and aligning themselves with higher spiritual ideals.