5 - Human Life And Its Purpose - Discipline

Question 1

Describe tapas.

Answer 1

The primary meaning of tapas is self-discipline or asceticism.

However, it is mentioned in texts as having many forms and different purposes.

The word tapas comes from the dhaatu √tap, which means to burn brightly or to purify.

According to the purpose of the tapas, sometimes one has to undergo great suffering to release certain powers.

Another definition of tapas is the unswerving performance of one’s
duty in the face of pleasure, pain, like and dislike, and other pairs of opposites in this world.

All in all, we can see that tapas is a multifaceted but important concept.

Question 2

What does the Bhagavad Gita say about tapas of the body?

Answer 2

Question 3

What does the Bhagavad Gita say about tapas of speech?

Answer 3

Question 4

What does the Bhagavad Gita say about tapas of mind?

Answer 4

Question 5

What does Mahabharata say about tapas?

Answer 5

The Mahaabhaarata, in SZaantiparva 250:4, states that “the highest tapas consists of one-pointedness of mind and senses.”