Arjuna seeks clarification from Lord Krishna regarding the spiritual status of individuals who, despite disregarding the injunctions of scripture (shastra), engage in worship with faith (shraddha). Arjuna questions whether their faith is rooted in the mode of goodness (sattva), passion (rajas), or ignorance (tamas). His inquiry reflects his earnest desire to understand the nuances of spiritual practice and the factors that influence one's spiritual evolution. He seeks guidance from Krishna to discern the efficacy of worship performed with faith but without adherence to scriptural principles.

Krishna's response to Arjuna's query provides profound insights into the nature of faith and its alignment with the three modes of material nature. He elucidates that the spiritual disposition of individuals who disregard scriptural injunctions but worship with faith varies according to their predominant mode of nature—sattva, rajas, or tamas.

Krishna further explains that individuals whose worship is characterized by purity, knowledge, and virtue exhibit faith rooted in the mode of goodness (sattva). Their worship is guided by noble intentions, self-discipline, and a desire for spiritual upliftment, leading to higher states of consciousness and spiritual progress.

Conversely, those whose worship is driven by desires, ambition, and attachment to the fruits of their actions demonstrate faith influenced by the mode of passion (rajas). Their worship may be marked by materialistic goals, egoistic pursuits, and a sense of competitiveness, leading to temporary gains but entanglement in the cycle of birth and death.

Individuals whose worship is characterized by delusion, ignorance, and heedlessness exhibit faith rooted in the mode of ignorance (tamas). Their worship may be tainted by superstition, ritualistic adherence devoid of understanding, and indulgence in harmful practices, leading to spiritual regression and bondage.

Through this discourse, Krishna emphasizes the importance of aligning one's faith and actions with the principles of scripture (shastra). He encourages seekers to cultivate a sincere and discerning faith that is grounded in spiritual knowledge, righteousness, and selflessness, transcending the influence of the three modes of material nature and attaining liberation (moksha).

In essence, this verse underscores the significance of scriptural wisdom and spiritual discernment in guiding one's faith and spiritual practices. It prompts individuals to introspect on the quality of their faith and its alignment with the principles of righteousness and spiritual evolution. By cultivating a faith rooted in goodness and aligned with divine principles, seekers can progress on the path of self-realization and attain eternal happiness and liberation.