Once again at the commencement of the chapter a glimpse can be had of Arjun in the form of the representative of mankind. Such questions of Arjun are not just for his own self, but is the representation for the masses at large. This state can invariably be seen in the society. Worship, sacrifice, pilgrimage, religious undertakings, charity, rites, rituals, etc. are performed; but either there is no knowledge of the scriptural norms, or no attention is paid to it. Faith does not appear to be lacking, but when the question arises of norms provided by the scriptures then only a question mark appears to be visible. One does devotedly worship, reads the scriptures, goes to the temple and visits holy places, gives charity, etc. but what does the scripture say? In what way can the actions like sacrifice, austerity be more effective? No care is taken of this!

In fact, the seed for the 17th verse was sown in the 23rd verse of the 16th chapter. There, the Blessed Lord had clearly stated that those who by abandoning the scriptural law, conduct themselves according to their fancies, they cannot attain perfection, happiness or the highest status. Here, this very matter has been taken up. The commencement of the verse was with the same word i.e. 'sastrvidhimutsrya' and here too the same word has been used in the beginning of the verse. But there is one distinct difference. There, mention was made of abandoning scriptural norm and engaging in whimsical behaviour (kaam kartah) whereas here the scriptural norms are ignored but inside the faith prevails for worship, devotion and religious undertakings (yajante sraddhayanvitah). Arjun has raised this very intricate question, it was essential too; because the age of Dwapar was already over. Further more, the age of Kali was to follow. Arjun understanding the pulse of hour, in the form of this question has done a great service to humanity! Adorable is this question of Arjun made in the spirit of enquiry.