Bhagavad Gita Chapter 17, Verse 26

English Translation

This word sat is used with regard to (something) coming into being and with regard to (someone) becoming good. So also, O son of Prtha, the word sat is used with regard to an auspicious rite.

Detailed Commentary

**Sadbhāve:** The very existence of the Supreme Self (Paramātman) is Sadbhāva. All forms of Paramātman, such as with attributes (saguṇa) or without attributes (nirguṇa), with form (sākāra) or without form (nirākāra), including Viṣṇu, Rāma, Kṛṣṇa, Śiva, Śakti, Gaṇeśa, Sūrya, and others, all fall under Sadbhāva. His numerous divine plays (līlā) and names are also encompassed within Sadbhāva. **Sādhubhāve:** Different traditions (sampradāyas) prescribe various means (sādhana) for the attainment of the Supreme Self. Noble sentiments (bhāva) like compassion (dayā) and forgiveness (kṣamā) in the heart come under Sādhubhāva. **Sadityetatprayujyate:** The word 'Sat' is employed for that Supreme Self (Paramātman) who is eternal and immutable. The word 'Sat' is also used for the divine qualities (daivī guṇa) essential for attaining the Supreme Self, such as truth (satya), forgiveness (kṣamā), generosity (udāratā), renunciation (tyāga), etc., as seen in terms like Sattattva (essence of Sat), Sadguṇa (virtue), and Sadbhāva (noble sentiment/existence). **Praśaste Karmaṇi tathā Sacchabdaḥ Pārtha yujyate:** Noble conduct described in various traditions (sampradāyas) for the attainment of the Supreme Self comes under Praśaste Karmaṇi (auspicious action). According to the scriptures (Śāstra), sacred rites like Yajñopavīta, Vivāha, offerings of food (Annadāna), land (Bhūmidāna), cows (Godāna), digging wells and stepwells, etc., are also considered noble actions within Praśaste Karmaṇi. In all such noble conduct and actions, the word 'Sat' is used, as in Sadācāra (good conduct), Satkarma (good deed), Satsevā (true service), and Sadvyavahāra (good behavior).