Speech, like action, must be refined through austerity. Words that are truthful, gentle, and beneficial cultivate harmony, while harsh speech, even if factual, can cause harm. Krishna’s emphasis on verbal discipline serves as a crucial reminder that communication is a tool for both spiritual growth and social harmony.

Mental austerity is the most subtle yet powerful form of discipline. Krishna highlights that real transformation begins within—through inner peace, purity of thought, and self-control. By emphasizing mental refinement, he shifts the focus from external acts to internal mastery as the highest form of tapasya.

True austerity is not about suffering or self-inflicted pain, but about sincere discipline rooted in faith and purity. Krishna underscores that sattvic austerities, performed with devotion and detachment from rewards, yield the greatest spiritual benefits.

Tamasic austerities, rooted in ignorance and self-torture, ultimately serve no higher purpose. Krishna warns against blind adherence to extreme penances that harm rather than uplift, reinforcing the importance of wisdom in spiritual practice.

Charity, when given selflessly and at the right time and place, embodies sattvic giving. Krishna’s teaching emphasizes the virtue of generosity without attachment, reinforcing the idea that true charity is an offering to the divine, not an investment in social status.

Rajasic charity is driven by expectation—whether of recognition or return favors. Krishna critiques this transactional mindset, implying that generosity loses its essence when tainted by selfish motives.