Bhagavad Gita Chapter 17, Verse 10

English Translation

Food which is not properly cooked, lacking in essence, putrid and stale, and even ort and that which is unfit for sacrifice, is dear to one possessed of tamas.

Detailed Commentary

Explanation: * **Yatayam**: Food that is undercooked or overcooked, whose proper time has passed. * **Gatarasam**: Food whose natural juice or essence has dried up or been extracted, such as milk or fruits. * **Puti**: Putrid or foul-smelling food, like onion or garlic. * **Paryushitam**: Leftover food from the previous night that has not become spoiled, such as Peda or Jalebi. * **Uchchhishtam**: Remnants or uneaten portions of food. * **Amedhyam**: Impure substances (unfit for sacrifice or consumption by noble persons), such as meat, fish, or eggs. * **Api Cha**: Furthermore, those substances forbidden by the Shastras. * **Bhojanam Tamasapriyam**: Such food is dear to the Tamasic. Even Sattvic food, when consumed with attachment (Raga), becomes Rajasic; and when consumed in excess, it becomes Tamasic. Contextual Connection: Here, the description is not of food itself, but of the eater's preference (Ruchi). This chapter describes the three types of food—Sattvic, Rajasic, and Tamasic. This indicates the nature of a person's inclination (Ruchi). Essential Considerations for Food: As the food (Anna) is, so the mind (Man) becomes. Therefore, food should be pure (Shuddha) and sacred (Pavitra). The effect of food extends to the mind, body, and conduct (Acharan). The place and environment should also be pure. During meals, keep the mind calm (Shanta) and cheerful (Prasanna). Avoid any negative emotions. Offer the food to God (Bhagavan) before partaking. Effect of Emotion: The emotional state (Bhava) of both the one who serves and the one who eats also affects the food. Food offered with love (Prem) and joy (Prasannata) is supreme (Shreshthatam). After completing the meal, perform Achamana (ritual sipping of water) and recite verses (Shloka). Connection: Next, the three types of Yajna, Tapas, and Dana are described.