Key Takeaways
1. The Gita: A Song of Spirit, Relevant for All
The Bhagavad Gita is the most beloved scripture of India, a scripture of scriptures.
Universal scripture. The Bhagavad Gita, meaning "Song of the Spirit," is revered as the essence of Hindu scriptures, offering profound spiritual and psychological truths applicable to all seekers, regardless of their path or time. It is a dialogue between man and his Creator.
God in everything. The Gita's pantheistic doctrine emphasizes the presence of God in all aspects of creation, from the vastness of nature to the intricacies of human existence. It is a celebration of the discovery of the Absolute, Spirit beyond creation, as being also the hidden Essence of all manifestation.
Yoga as the path. The Gita advocates for yoga, the timeless science of God-union, as the means to detach from egoity and reunite with the Cosmic Dreamer, leading to liberation and the realization of ever-existing, ever-conscious, ever-new Bliss.
2. Renunciation and Yoga: Two Paths to the Same Liberation
The main theme throughout the Gita is that one should be an adherent of sannyasa, a renouncer of this egoity ingrained through avidya, ignorance, within the physical self of man.
Sannyasa and Yoga. The Gita emphasizes the importance of sannyasa (renunciation of egoity) and yoga (union with the Cosmic Dreamer) as interconnected paths to liberation. By detaching from desires and reuniting with cosmic consciousness, one transcends the illusion of separation.
Egoless action. The Gita advocates for right action performed with nonattachment, freeing the yogi from nature's dualities and the bondage of karma. This involves performing all works as oblations (Yajna), recognizing that righteous duty, when performed without ego, is godly.
The essence of freedom. The Gita's way of freedom involves meditation on God combined with desireless activity, allowing the self to act as a transcendental witness, unaffected by the world and ensconced in indestructible bliss.
3. Understanding the Battlefield: The Body, Mind, and Soul
The timeless message of the Bhagavad Gita does not refer only to one historical battle, but to the cosmic conflict between good and evil: life as a series of battles between Spirit and matter, soul and body, life and death, knowledge and ignorance, health and disease, changelessness and transitoriness, self-control and temptations, discrimination and the blind sense-mind.
Kurukshetra as allegory. The battlefield of Kurukshetra serves as a metaphor for the inner psychological and spiritual battles waged within each individual between the forces of good and evil. The body is the field of action.
The players. The Gita uses the characters of the Mahabharata to represent different aspects of the human psyche, with the Pandavas symbolizing pure intelligence and the Kauravas representing the blind mind and its wicked sense-tendencies. Arjuna represents the ideal devotee.
The goal. The ultimate aim is Self-realization, the realization of man’s true Self, the soul, as made in the image of God, one with the ever-existing, ever-conscious, ever-new bliss of Spirit.
4. The Divine and the Demonic: Choosing Your Nature
The Soul Qualities That Make Man Godlike.
Two paths. The Gita presents a stark contrast between the divine and the demonic, highlighting the qualities that lead to liberation and those that lead to bondage. It emphasizes the importance of embracing divine qualities and shunning demonic ones.
Soul qualities. The soul qualities that make man Godlike include fearlessness, purity of heart, perseverance in acquiring wisdom, charity, self-control, performance of holy rites, study of the scriptures, self-discipline, and straightforwardness.
Demonic nature. The nature and fate of souls who shun the divine include vainglorious pride, arrogance, conceit, wrath, harshness, and ignorance. The threefold gate of hell is lust, anger, and greed.
5. The Three Gunas: Understanding Nature's Influence
The main theme throughout the Gita is that one should be an adherent of sannyasa, a renouncer of this egoity ingrained through avidya, ignorance, within the physical self of man.
Gunas defined. The Gita explains that all of cosmic nature, and therefore human nature, is comprised of three qualities (gunas): sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance). These qualities influence our thoughts, actions, and perceptions.
Sattvic, Rajasic, and Tamasic life. The Gita describes the fruits of the sattvic, rajasic, and tamasic life, emphasizing the importance of transcending the gunas to attain liberation. The nature of the Jivanmukta is one who rises above Nature’s Qualities.
Transcending the gunas. The Gita advocates for rising above the gunas through self-awareness, detachment, and devotion to God, ultimately leading to a state of liberation and union with the Divine.
6. Krishna's Cosmic Form: Seeing God in All Creation
The entire knowledge of the cosmos is packed into the Gita.
Vision of Visions. The Gita culminates in Krishna revealing his cosmic form to Arjuna, a vision of the interconnectedness of all things and the omnipresence of Spirit.
The Lord's Manifestations. The Gita explores the infinite manifestations of the unmanifest Spirit, emphasizing that God is the source of all creation, both material and spiritual. The diverse modifications of God’s Nature are the diverse modifications of our own nature.
The Uttermost Being. The Gita emphasizes that the Supreme Spirit is beyond the perishable and the imperishable, the ultimate reality that sustains all existence.
7. Bhakti: The Path of Love and Devotion
Heavenly Father, Mother, Friend, Beloved God, May Thy love shine forever on the sanctuary of my devotion, and may I be able to awaken Thy love in all hearts.
Union through devotion. The Gita explores Bhakti Yoga, the path of union through devotion, emphasizing the importance of love and surrender to God as a means of attaining liberation.
Personal God. The Gita addresses the question of whether the yogi should worship the unmanifest or a personal God, ultimately advocating for a balanced approach that incorporates both.
Qualities of the devotee. The Gita outlines the qualities of the devotee, endearing to God, including qualities of the Devotee, Endearing to God.
8. Karma Yoga: Action Without Attachment
The path advocated by Sri Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita is the moderate, medium, golden path, both for the busy man of the world and for the highest spiritual aspirant.
Spiritual Action. The Gita emphasizes the importance of spiritual action, or Karma Yoga, as a means of attaining liberation. It advocates for performing all actions without attachment to their fruits.
The Nature of Right Action. The Gita explores the nature of right action, emphasizing the importance of performing all works as oblations (Yajna) and recognizing that righteous duty, performed with nonattachment, is godly.
Freedom from Karma. The Gita explains how egoless action frees the yogi from nature's dualities and the bondage of karma, ultimately leading to liberation.
9. The Knower of the Field: Differentiating Spirit from Matter
The true way to understand scripture is through intuition, attuning oneself to the inner realization of truth.
The Field and the Knower. The Gita explores the concept of the field (kshetra) and the knower of the field (kshetrajna), emphasizing the importance of differentiating between matter and Spirit, body and soul.
True Nature. The Gita explores the true nature of matter and Spirit, body and soul, emphasizing the importance of understanding their distinct characteristics.
Three Approaches. The Gita outlines three approaches to Self-realization, emphasizing the importance of differentiating between the field and its knower to attain liberation.
10. The Promise of Liberation: Transcending Rebirth
In truth do I promise thee: Thou Shalt Attain Me.
Renunciation and Nonattachment. The Gita emphasizes the importance of renunciation and nonattachment as essential components of the path to liberation.
The Roots of Action. The Gita explores the roots of action and the consummation of action (liberation), emphasizing the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of all things.
The Dialogue Concludes. The Gita concludes with a summary of its message, emphasizing the importance of devotion, wisdom, and action in attaining liberation and union with the Divine.
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FAQ
What's The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization about?
- Spiritual Dialogue: The book is a conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, addressing moral and philosophical dilemmas on the battlefield. It explores the nature of duty, righteousness, and the path to self-realization.
- Yoga and Meditation: Emphasizes various forms of yoga, including Karma Yoga and Bhakti Yoga, as means to achieve union with God. The text serves as a guide for spiritual seekers on how to navigate life's challenges through meditation and self-discipline.
- Universal Themes: The teachings are applicable to all aspects of life, addressing moral dilemmas, the nature of desire, and the quest for truth. The Gita is portrayed as a timeless scripture that transcends cultural and historical boundaries.
Why should I read The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization?
- Timeless Wisdom: Offers profound insights into human nature, ethics, and spirituality that are relevant across cultures and eras. Its teachings can guide readers in navigating life's challenges and moral dilemmas.
- Practical Guidance: Provides practical advice on how to live a balanced life, emphasizing the importance of self-discipline, meditation, and devotion. Readers can apply these principles to enhance their personal and spiritual growth.
- Cultural Significance: As a foundational text in Hindu philosophy, understanding The Bhagavad Gita enriches one's knowledge of Indian culture and spirituality, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in philosophy or religion.
What are the key takeaways of The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization?
- Nature of the Self: The true self (Atman) is eternal and unchanging, while the physical body is temporary. Understanding this distinction is crucial for spiritual growth.
- Duty and Righteousness: Emphasizes performing one's duty without attachment to the results, a concept known as nishkama karma. This approach fosters peace and fulfillment.
- Paths to Liberation: Outlines various paths to liberation, including Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga, each offering unique methods for spiritual growth and self-discovery.
What are the best quotes from The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization and what do they mean?
- "The soul is never born nor does it ever perish.": Highlights the eternal nature of the soul, emphasizing that while the body may die, the soul continues to exist beyond physical form.
- "Your human right is for activity only, never for the resultant fruit of actions.": Teaches the principle of selfless action, encouraging individuals to focus on their duties without attachment to outcomes, which leads to spiritual liberation.
- "He who sees inaction in action, and action in inaction, is intelligent.": Suggests the wisdom of understanding the deeper nature of actions and the importance of inner detachment, promoting spiritual awareness.
How does The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization define yoga?
- Union with God: Yoga is described as the path to union with God, encompassing various practices that lead to spiritual awakening and self-realization.
- Different Paths: Outlines different forms of yoga, including Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Karma Yoga (selfless action), and Jnana Yoga (knowledge), each suited to different temperaments and inclinations.
- Practical Application: Emphasizes that yoga is not just a theoretical concept but a practical approach to living a balanced and fulfilling life.
What is Karma Yoga as described in The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization?
- Path of Action: Karma Yoga is the practice of selfless action performed for the benefit of others without attachment to the results. It teaches that one can attain spiritual growth through their daily duties and responsibilities.
- Detachment from Results: Advises that actions should be performed with a sense of duty and devotion, while remaining unattached to the fruits of those actions. This leads to liberation from karmic bondage.
- Integration with Spirituality: Integrates spiritual practice with everyday life, allowing individuals to cultivate a sense of purpose and connection to the divine through their actions.
What is Bhakti Yoga in The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization?
- Path of Devotion: Bhakti Yoga is the path of love and devotion towards God, emphasizing the importance of surrendering oneself to the divine will. It encourages a personal relationship with God through prayer and worship.
- Cultivating Love: Involves cultivating love for God and recognizing His presence in all beings. This devotion leads to a profound sense of unity with God.
- Union with the Divine: Bhakti Yoga leads to experiencing divine bliss and peace, allowing devotees to transcend their limitations and realize their true nature.
How does The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization address the concept of dharma?
- Natural Duty: Dharma refers to the moral and ethical duties inherent to an individual's nature and position in life. Each person has a unique dharma based on their qualities and responsibilities.
- Spiritual Growth: Performing one's dharma is essential for spiritual development and contributes to the overall harmony of society. It is a path to achieving the highest success.
- Avoiding Sin: Neglecting one's dharma leads to sin and suffering, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one's responsibilities with integrity and devotion.
What is the significance of the concepts of Kshetra and Kshetrajna in The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization?
- Field and Knower: Kshetra refers to the body or the field of action, while Kshetrajna refers to the soul or the knower of the field. This distinction is crucial for understanding the relationship between the physical and spiritual aspects of existence.
- Inner Battle: Uses the metaphor of a battlefield to illustrate the inner conflict between the ego and the soul, emphasizing the need for self-control and wisdom.
- Spiritual Awareness: Recognizing the difference between Kshetra and Kshetrajna helps individuals understand their true nature and the importance of spiritual realization.
How does The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization describe the three gunas?
- Three Qualities: Describes the three gunas—sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance)—as the fundamental qualities that influence human behavior and consciousness.
- Impact on Life: Each guna affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world, shaping their thoughts, actions, and spiritual progress.
- Transcending the Gunas: The ultimate goal is to transcend these qualities to realize one's true nature as the eternal soul, achieving spiritual liberation.
What role does meditation play in The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization?
- Spiritual Practice: Meditation is presented as a vital practice for achieving self-realization and connecting with the divine. It allows individuals to quiet the mind and connect with their inner divine essence.
- Inner Peace: Through meditation, individuals can attain inner peace and clarity, allowing them to navigate life's challenges with wisdom.
- Union with God: Facilitates the union of the individual soul with the Supreme Spirit, leading to liberation and spiritual awakening.
How does The Bhagavad Gita: Royal Science of God-Realization address the concept of renunciation?
- Sannyasa vs. Tyaga: Sannyasa refers to the renunciation of desires and selfish motives, while tyaga is the relinquishment of attachment to the fruits of actions. Both are essential for spiritual progress.
- Active Engagement: Emphasizes that true renunciation does not mean abandoning action but rather performing duties selflessly and with devotion to God.
- Inner Transformation: Portrays renunciation as an inner state of nonattachment, allowing individuals to engage in the world while remaining anchored in their spiritual essence.
Review Summary
The Bhagavad Gita interpreted by Paramahansa Yogananda receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with readers praising its depth, spiritual wisdom, and life-changing impact. Many consider it the best translation and commentary available, highlighting its ability to reveal new layers of meaning with each reading. Readers appreciate Yogananda's unique perspective, combining Hindu philosophy with Christian teachings and scientific insights. The book is described as comprehensive, thought-provoking, and essential for serious spiritual seekers. Some find it challenging due to its length and complexity, but most view it as a profound guide to self-realization and inner peace.
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