228. Types of Yajna

Krishna says, “Yajna (sacrifice or performance of duty or selfless action) is satvik which is offered by those desiring no fruit of action; which is performed according to scriptural injunctions, with the firm conviction of the mind that it is a matter of duty (17.11). That yajna performed seeking fruits of action and with an ostentatious spirit is rajasik in nature (17.12). That yajna is tamasik which is without regard for scriptures, in which no food is distributed, no mantras chanted, and no donation is given and is without shraddha (devotion)” (17.13). The word yajna can be interpreted in different ways depending on the level of the seeker and accordingly, the meaning of these verses keeps varying.

Firstly, the simple meaning of yajna is a fire ritual. History suggests that fire rituals were a norm during the time of the Kurukshetra battle. Till today, fire rituals are performed across the country on the occasion of festivals to invite good vibes and ward off evil. These are also commonly seen during occasions like marriages. A literal reading of these verses gives a glimpse of how one performs yajna, when one has to perform for whatever may be the reason, based on the guna that is dominant at that point in time. Secondly, yajna also symbolizes the performance of one’s duties. These verses indicate how one discharges one’s duties and responsibilities, from sincerity to carelessness, depending on the dominant guna.

Finally, yajna also indicates selfless actions of give and take. While citing rain as an example, Krishna clarified that the selfless action of yajna holds the supreme reality or supreme power (3.15). He advised that instead of hoarding, one should participate in the cycle of give and take which will free us from all sins (3.13) - hoarding being the original sin. Just being a part of these selfless actions is nothing but the state of guna-atheeth (transcending the influence of gunas) - without longing or aversion.