17.7 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 17, Verse 7

Bhagavad Gita verse 17.7 reveals how even our food preferences are deeply connected to our internal nature and consciousness. Lord Krishna explains that the food we find dear or preferable comes in three varieties, according to the three modes of material nature (sattva, rajas, and tamas). This same principle extends to how we perform sacrifices, austerities, and charity.

In this verse, Krishna transitions from discussing faith and worship to exploring how the gunas (modes) manifest in everyday practices. The Sanskrit text "āhārastvapi sarvasya trividho bhavati priyaḥ" directly translates to "the food also which is dear to each is three-fold". This indicates that our food choices aren't merely about taste or convenience but reflect deeper aspects of our consciousness.

The verse establishes an important connection between what we consume and who we are becoming. Food in sattva (goodness) tends to be fresh, nourishing, and prepared with care. Such food promotes clarity of mind, physical health, and emotional well-being. Think of freshly prepared vegetables, grains, fruits, and milk products that naturally elevate consciousness rather than burdening the body.

By contrast, food in rajas (passion) excites the senses with excessive spice, salt, or sourness. While momentarily stimulating, such food often creates restlessness and dissatisfaction, mirroring the agitated consciousness of those who prefer it. The immediate pleasure it provides often leads to discomfort later – both physically and mentally.

Food in tamas (ignorance) includes that which is stale, tasteless, improperly cooked, or consumed as leftovers. Such food choices dull the mind and deplete energy, appealing to those who prioritize convenience over consciousness. The Sanskrit term "amedhya" (impure) suggests such food disconnects us from clarity and spiritual awareness.

This verse invites us to examine our relationship with food as a reflection of our broader consciousness. Our seemingly simple preference for certain foods actually reveals the mode dominating our nature. But Krishna suggests a reciprocal relationship – not only does our consciousness determine our food choices, but our food choices reinforce and shape our consciousness. This creates either an upward or downward spiral in our pursuit of clarity and spiritual advancement.

The wisdom of this verse extends beyond mere dietary guidelines. By understanding that even our most basic daily choices like eating are influenced by the three gunas, we gain insight into how material nature shapes our existence at every level. Krishna invites us to listen carefully ("śṛṇu" - hear) to these distinctions, suggesting that mindfulness about what we consume represents an important step on the spiritual path. The food that nourishes our body ultimately affects the mind that seeks the Divine.