Threefold Faith - 17 - 03

The Shloka

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सत्त्वानुरूपा सर्वस्य श्रद्धा भवति भारत ।

श्रद्धामयोऽयं पुरुषो यो यच्छ्रद्धः स एव सः ॥

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sattvānurūpā sarvasya śraddhā bhavati bhārata।

śraddhāmayo’yaṁ puruṣo yo yacchraddhaḥ sa eva saḥ॥

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Meaning / Summary

This shloka highlights the profound influence of one’s inherent nature (sattva) on their faith (shraddha) and, consequently, on their character and actions. It underscores the idea that faith is not merely a belief but a reflection of one’s inner self, shaping their thoughts, behaviors, and ultimately, their identity. Understanding this connection allows individuals to cultivate faith that aligns with their highest potential, leading to personal growth and spiritual development.

O Arjuna, the faith of each individual corresponds to their nature. A person consists of faith; as their faith is, so are they.

Arjuna, a person’s faith is shaped by their inherent nature. Individuals are defined by their faith.

This verse explains that faith (shraddha) is not a static quality but is dynamic and influenced by one’s inherent nature (sattva). The word ‘sattva’ here refers to the inherent qualities, tendencies, and mental disposition of an individual. People’s faith is aligned with these inherent qualities. The verse further emphasizes the profound impact of faith on a person’s character and actions, stating that individuals are essentially a product of their faith. The type of faith one possesses shapes their thoughts, actions, and ultimately, their identity. An individual is defined by their faith.

Sentence - 1

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सत्त्वानुरूपा सर्वस्य श्रद्धा भवति भारत ।

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Meaning

O Bharata (Arjuna), the faith of all people is in accordance with their inherent nature.

Meaning of Words

सत्त्वानुरूपा	sattvānurūpā
according to the nature (sattva) Refers to ‘sattva’ – the inherent quality, nature, or disposition of a person. ‘Anurupa’ means ‘according to’ or ‘consistent with’. Therefore, ‘sattvanurupa’ signifies that something is in alignment or harmony with one’s inherent nature or sattva.
सर्वस्य	sarvasya
of all Belonging to all, of everyone, relating to each and every individual.
श्रद्धा	śraddhā
faith Faith, reverence, trust, belief, conviction. It goes beyond mere intellectual assent and encompasses a deep sense of commitment and devotion.
भवति	bhavati	becomes Is, happens, occurs, comes into being.
भारत	bhārata
O Bharata (Arjuna) An epithet of Arjuna, a descendant of King Bharata. It’s a way of addressing Arjuna, reminding him of his noble lineage and duties. It means “descendant of Bharata”.

Sentence - 2

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श्रद्धामयोऽयं पुरुषो यो यच्छ्रद्धः स एव सः ॥

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Meaning

This person consists of faith; whatever his faith is, he is that.

Meaning of Words

श्रद्धामयः	śraddhāmayaḥ
full of faith Composed of faith, characterized by faith, imbued with faith.
अयं	ayaṁ
This, this one, referring to something present or being discussed.
पुरुषः	puruṣo
A person, individual, human being. It also implies the indwelling spirit or consciousness.
यः	yo
Who, whoever, which, whichever, referring to a person or thing.
यत्	yat
Which, what, whatever. Indicates a relative pronoun referring to something unspecified.
श्रद्धः	śraddhaḥ
whose faith Whose faith is of a particular kind; one who possesses a certain type of faith.
सः	saḥ
he He, that person, referring to someone previously mentioned or implied.
एव	eva	indeed

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