Arjuna said: Those who, having cast aside the rules of the scriptures (śāstra), sacrifice endowed with faith (śraddhā), What is their basis (niṣṭhā), O Dark one (Kṛṣṇa)? Is it goodness (sattva), passion (rajas), or darkness (tamas)?
Men who ignore the ways of tradition but sacrifice in full faith, Krishna, what quality of nature is basic in them— lucidity, passion, or dark inertia?
Arjuna said: (1) [And yet there are some] who forsake the ordinance of Scripture and offer sacrifice full filled with faith, where do they stand? On Goodness, Passion, or Darkness?
17.1 Arjuna said -- But, ['But' is used to present a standpoint distinct from the earlier ones understand from 16.23-4.-S.] O Kṛṣṇa, what is the state [i.e., where do the rites undertaken by them end?] of those who, endued with faith, adore [Adore-perform sacrifices, distribute wealth etc. in honor of gods and others.] by ignoring the injunctions of the scriptures? Is it sattva, rajas or tamas?
17.1 Arjuna said -- Now what, O Kṛṣṇa, is the position or basis of those who leave aside the injunction of the Śāstra, yet worship with faith? Is it Sattva, Rajas or Tamas?
17.1 Arjuna said -- Those who, setting aside the ordinances of the scriptures, perform sacrifice with faith, what is their condition, O Kṛṣṇa? Is it Sattva, Rajas or Tamas?