Bhagavad Gita Chapter 17, Verse 21

English Translation

But the gift which is given expecting reciprocation, or again, with a desire for its result, and which is given grudgingly,- that is considered to be born of rajas.

Detailed Commentary

।।17.21।। Elucidation: *Yattu pratyupakārārtham* – *Rājasic* *dāna* is given with the intention of receiving a return. For instance, a *rājasic* person meticulously counts items of *dāna* on a special occasion and thinks: “We will give *dāna* to the *Kulapurōhit* (family priest) of our relatives so that they, in turn, may give *dāna* to our *Kulapurōhit*, enriching him. We will give *dāna* to a *Paṇḍit* (scholar) who is knowledgeable in astrology with the aim that he will calculate auspicious *muhūrtas* (timings) for our journeys, the marriages of our sons and daughters, building a new house, or digging a well. We will give money as assistance to our relatives or benefactors so that they may help us in the future. We will give *dāna* to a *Paṇḍit* who dispenses medicine so that he may assist us with medicines.” Thus, *dāna* given with the expectation of a return is called *pratyupakārārtham*. *Phalamuddiśya vā punaḥ* – When *dāna* is given with a specific fruit (*phala*) in mind, the *rājasic* individual pays attention to *deśa* (place, like Ganga, Yamuna, Kurukṣetra), *kāla* (time, like new moon, full moon, eclipse), and *pātra* (recipient, like a *Vedapāṭhī Brāhmaṇa*). They also observe the scriptural rules and rituals. However, such *dāna* becomes *rājasic* due to the desire for a specific outcome (*phala*). The description of other rituals and rules was not essential, hence the terms *deśe kāle ca pātre* were not used in the context of *rājasic* *dāna*. The word *punaḥ* (again) implies that a *rājasic* person gives *dāna* considering someone from whom they have already benefited or from whom they anticipate future benefit. *Dīyate ca parikliṣṭam* – *Rājasic* *dāna* is given with great difficulty, for example, thinking, “The time has come, so it must be given.” “If we give these many items, these many will be reduced.” “If we give this much money, it will be gone.” “They are useful in times of need, so it must be given.” “It would be good if the task is accomplished with just this much.” “Giving more will spoil the recipient's nature.” “Giving more will cause self-loss, yet it must be given.” In this way, *rājasic* individuals give less *dāna*, and they do so grudgingly. *Taddānaṁ rājasaṁ smṛtam* – Such *dāna* is known as *rājasic*.