There are three modes of material nature (guna)—sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance). Krishna explains to Arjuna that faith, which arises from individual nature (svabhava), manifests in three distinct categories based on the predominance of the three gunas. He introduces the concept of trividha shraddha, meaning threefold faith, which encompasses different qualities and attributes depending on an individual's inherent nature. He describes how faith is not uniform but varies according to the predominant guna influencing one's personality and actions.

The first type of faith is sattvic, characterized by purity, clarity, and a harmonious disposition. Sattvic faith arises from a mind imbued with goodness, wisdom, and spiritual aspiration. Individuals with sattvic faith exhibit qualities such as truthfulness, compassion, and self-discipline, seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment.

The second type of faith is rajasic, marked by ambition, desire, and restlessness. Rajasic faith stems from a mind driven by worldly pursuits, material desires, and the pursuit of power and prestige. Individuals with rajasic faith are often motivated by self-interest, seeking success, and gratification in the external world.

The third type of faith is tamasic, characterized by ignorance, delusion, and inertia. Tamasic faith arises from a mind clouded by darkness, attachment, and lethargy. Individuals with tamasic faith are prone to indulgence in negative tendencies, such as laziness, ignorance, and harmful habits, leading to spiritual stagnation and moral degradation.

Krishna's teachings in this verse highlight the profound influence of one's inner nature (svabhava) on their beliefs, attitudes, and actions. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the quality of one's faith and its alignment with spiritual principles for spiritual progress and self-realization.

Moreover, Krishna's classification of faith into sattvic, rajasic, and tamasic provides seekers with a framework for self-assessment and personal growth. By discerning the predominant influence of the gunas in their lives, individuals can strive to cultivate sattvic qualities, transcend rajasic and tamasic tendencies, and evolve towards higher states of consciousness.

In essence, this verse from the Bhagavad Gita underscores the dynamic interplay between faith and the three modes of material nature. It encourages seekers to cultivate sattvic qualities, overcome rajasic and tamasic influences, and align their beliefs and actions with the path of spiritual enlightenment and liberation.