What does OM TAT SAT mean?

OM TAT SAT is the triple designation of Brahman. OM represents the infinite reality, TAT represents the 'That' (the Absolute beyond), and SAT represents Truth, reality, and goodness.

Where is OM TAT SAT mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita?

It is explained by Sri Krishna in Chapter 17, verses 23 through 28, in the context of the Yoga of the Threefold Faith.

OM TAT SAT Meaning: The Supreme Absolute Truth

The Triple Name of Brahman: Meaning of OM TAT SAT

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Bhagavad Gita Concepts.

The mantra OM TAT SAT is one of the most profound and mystical declarations in the Bhagavad Gita. Found in the final section of Chapter 17, it serves as a spiritual compass, aligning every human action—sacrifice, charity, and austerity—with the God-centered reality of Brahman. By invoking these three syllables, the seeker acknowledges that the infinite alone is the Truth, purifying their intent and relinquishing the ego’s attachment to the fruits of labor.

OM TAT SAT could be translated as: “The infinite is the Truth (reality, goodness)”, that is, the Supreme Absolute Truth or Brahman, OM alone is the only reality. It is an important mantra, they are mystical syllables.

Pedro Nonell, expert in Bhagavad Gita and Advaita Vedanta
Professor: Pedro Nonell (Expert on Swami Vivekananda, translator, and commentator of the Bhagavad Gita into Spanish)

OM: The primordial sound, representing the Absolute Reality.
TAT: Meaning "That," used by seekers of liberation to perform actions without desire for fruits.
SAT: Meaning "Truth" and "Goodness," applied to reality and noble actions.

In Chapter 17- The Yoga of the Threefold Faith of the Bhagavad Gita (Philosophy of Yoga), we find the definition of OM TAT SAT. Sri Krishna tells Arjuna:

“OM TAT SAT has been declared as the triple name of Brahman and by that name the ancient Brahmins, the Vedas and the sacrifices were created” Bhagavad Gita 17-23 Yoga of the Threefold Faith.

“Therefore, all the rites of sacrifice, charity and austerity are always performed according to the rule by the Brahmavadins, with OM always on their lips.

“Uttering TAT and without desire for the fruits of the various rites of sacrifice, austerity and charity, it is performed by those who seek Freedom” Bhagavad Gita 17.25.

“SAT is used in the sense of reality and goodness; O Partha, SAT is also used in beautiful actions.” Bhagavad Gita 17.26.

“Consistency in sacrifice, austerity and charity is called SAT ; and all the work to achieve those ends is also SAT” Bhagavad Gita 17.27.

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Swamis

For Gandhi:

“The essence of the last four shlokas is that every action should be done in a spirit of complete dedication to God. Because OM alone is the only reality. Only what is dedicated to Him counts.” Gandhi.

For Swami Sivananda:

“Any sacrifice, austerity or charity made without being dedicated to the Lord will be of no use to the maker in this earthly life or in the life to come.” Swami Sivananda.

Conclusion

The mantra OM TAT SAT is not merely a ritualistic chant but a philosophical framework for living. It teaches us that when we align our thoughts and deeds with the Truth of God, we move beyond the ephemeral world into the realm of the eternal. Whether through sacrifice, charity, or simple daily work, dedicating our efforts to the Supreme Absolute Truth ensures that our path is one of reality and goodness.

Bhagavad Gita in Spanish OM TAT SAT Bhagavad Gita Bhagavad Gita in Portuguese OM TAT SAT.