Bhagavad Gita Chapter 16, Verse 17

English Translation

Self-conceited, haughty, filled with pride and intoxication of wealth, they perform sacrifices which are so in name only, with ostentation and regardless of the injunctions.

Detailed Commentary

*Ātmasammānitaḥ*: These individuals consider themselves great and worthy of reverence in their own minds. They believe there is no one equal to them, and thus demand respect. They deem themselves superior in all aspects and desire that everyone should conform to their will. *Stabdhāḥ*: They are never humble before anyone. They do not bow their heads even before saints, great souls (*Mahātmās*), or Bhagavān (God). If compelled to bow, they do so with pride, for they are filled with immense arrogance. *Dhana-Māna Madāviṣṭaḥ*: They are intoxicated by the *mada* (intoxication/pride) of wealth and honor. They are filled with pride over their riches, connections, lands, properties, and homes. They believe they possess significant identities and can accomplish anything. For them, wealth and honor are paramount. *Yajante Nāma-Yajñaiste Dambhena*: These people perform *yajñas* (sacrifices) merely in name, *dambhena* (with hypocrisy and ostentation). Their sole intention is to make a show and gain fame. In temples, when there is a crowd or during a *Mahotsava* (grand festival), they decorate the temple so that more people visit and donations accumulate. They do not perform true *pūjan* (worship) of Thakur Ji (the deity), but rather worship people. In *gośālās* (cow shelters), they keep only healthy cows for show and spread false propaganda about them. They misuse institutional funds for personal benefit. Even their *sādhan-bhajan* (spiritual practices) are merely for show. They seek to be recognized by people as devout and to receive praise. Their *sādhan-bhajan* is not genuine. *Avidhi-Pūrvakam*: They perform actions *avidhi-pūrvakam* (without following scriptural injunctions). They disregard the *śāstras* (scriptures) and engage in prohibited deeds. While they may perform *dāna* (charity) and similar acts, they do not do so in the prescribed manner. Their intellect is perverse.