The Yoga of the Threefold Faith

Krishna describes tamasic sacrifice—sacrifice that is tamasic. 'Vidhi-hīnam asṛṣṭānnaṁ mantra-hīnam adakṣiṇam śraddhā-virahitaṁ yajñaṁ'—this sacrifice is without scriptural injunctions (vidhi-hīnam), without distribution of food (asṛṣṭānnam), without mantras (mantra-hīnam), without dakshina (adakṣiṇam), and without faith (śraddhā-virahitam). 'Tāmasaṁ paricakṣate'—it is declared (paricakṣate) to be tamasic (tāmasam). Tamasic sacrifice is performed negligently, without proper form, without understanding, and without faith. It's not about duty or results—it's about going through the motions without care or understanding. Understanding this helps you recognize tamasic sacrifice and avoid it.