Self-Discipline (Tapas) in the Bhagavad Gita
Explore the 3 types of Tapas (discipline of body, speech, and mind) taught in Chapter 17 of the Bhagavad Gita.
Definition & Meaning
Tapas means spiritual discipline, austerity, and voluntary self-restraint aimed at mental purification.
Meaning in the Bhagavad Gita
Chapter 17 categorizes discipline into three realms: physical purity, truthful/kind speech, and mental tranquility.
Important Verses on self discipline
Worship of the gods, the twice-born, the teachers, and the wise; purity, straightforwardness, celibacy, and non-injury are all called the austerities of the body.
Speech that causes no excitement, is truthful, pleasant, and beneficial; the practice of studying the Vedas is called austerity of speech.
Serenity of mind, good-heartedness, self-control, and purity of nature—this is called mental austerity.
Verily, Yoga is not possible for him who eats too much, nor for him who does not eat at all, nor for him who sleeps too much, nor for him who is always awake, O Arjuna.
Practical Application in Daily Life
Practice speech discipline: speak words that are truthful, pleasant, beneficial, and non-agitating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tapas of speech in BG 17.15?
Words that cause no agitation, are truthful, pleasant, beneficial, and accompanied by scripture study.
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