
17
CHAPTER
VERSE
10
यातयामं गतरसं पूति पर्युषितं च यत् |
उच्छिष्टमपि चामेध्यं भोजनं तामसप्रियम् || 17.10 ||
Yātayāmaṁ gatarasaṁ pūti paryuṣitaṁ ca yat |
Ucchiṣṭamapi cāmedhyaṁ bhojanaṁ tāmasapriyam ||
Food that is left overnight, food that is tasteless, putrid, stale, and impure, is dear to those in the mode of ignorance.
Lesson:
Krishna further mentions the types of food that are preferred by individuals influenced by the mode of ignorance (tamas guna). He describes the characteristics of tamasic food, which includes leftovers, tasteless, putrid, stale, and impure substances. Such food items are favoured by those whose consciousness is clouded by ignorance and darkness. His description of tamasic food highlights its detrimental effects on physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual consciousness. Leftover food, devoid of freshness and vitality, lacks nutritional value and may lead to digestive issues and other health problems. Similarly, tasteless, putrid, and stale food items are unappetizing and may cause discomfort or illness when consumed.
Moreover, Krishna points out that tamasic food is impure, contaminated by external factors such as dirt, insects, or harmful substances. Consuming impure food not only affects the physical body but also impacts one's mental and spiritual purity, contributing to negative thoughts and behaviours.
The verse serves as a cautionary reminder to individuals to be mindful of the quality of food they consume and its impact on their overall well-being. It underscores the importance of cultivating sattvic (pure and wholesome) dietary habits for maintaining optimal health and fostering spiritual growth.
Furthermore, Krishna's teachings highlight the correlation between food and consciousness. According to the Bhagavad Gita, food influences one's mental disposition and spiritual evolution. Consuming tamasic food can darken the consciousness, leading to lethargy, apathy, and ignorance. In contrast, sattvic food promotes clarity, vitality, and spiritual upliftment, enhancing one's capacity for self-awareness and self-realization.
This verse also emphasizes the principle of self-discipline and self-awareness in dietary choices. By exercising discernment and moderation in food consumption, individuals can align themselves with the path of righteousness and spiritual evolution. Choosing nourishing, pure, and wholesome food not only sustains the body but also uplifts the mind and nourishes the soul.
In essence, this verse from the Bhagavad Gita underscores the importance of cultivating mindful eating habits and consuming food that promotes physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual well-being. It encourages individuals to transcend the allure of tamasic food and embrace sattvic nourishment for holistic growth and inner transformation.