Sraddha Traya Vibhaga Yogah - Those who practice severe austerities, not prescribed by scripture, out of hypocrisy and egoism, driven by desire and attachment, are misguided.
अशास्त्रविहितं घोरं तप्यन्ते ये तपो जना: |
दम्भाहङ्कारसंयुक्ता: कामरागबलान्विता: ||5||

Those who practice severe austerities, not prescribed by scripture, out of hypocrisy and egoism, driven by desire and attachment, are misguided.

  • Tapo Janah: People engaged in austerities or penances.
  • Ahankara: Ego or sense of self-importance.
  • Dambha: Hypocrisy or false pride in spiritual practices.

Krishna critiques extreme austerities performed out of pride and ego rather than sincere devotion. Self-imposed suffering, if not grounded in wisdom, leads to spiritual degradation rather than progress. This warning is crucial, as misguided practices can appear disciplined yet result in harmful consequences for both body and soul.

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