Who is the author of 'The Bhagavad Gita'?

The author of 'The Bhagavad Gita' is Eknath Easwaran.

What are the main themes in 'The Bhagavad Gita'?

The main themes in 'The Bhagavad Gita' include Philosophy, Eastern Religions, Spiritual Growth, Spirituality and Religion.

What genre is 'The Bhagavad Gita'?

'The Bhagavad Gita' is categorized as Spirituality and Religion, Philosophy.

What is the main theme of The Bhagavad Gita?

The main theme of 'The Bhagavad Gita' is the exploration of duty, righteousness, and the nature of reality. It emphasizes the importance of following one's dharma (duty) while remaining detached from the fruits of one's actions. The text also addresses the concepts of selflessness, devotion, and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom, highlighting the relationship between the individual soul (Atman) and the universal spirit (Brahman). Ultimately, it offers guidance on how to live a life of purpose and integrity amidst the challenges of the world.

Who is the author of the translation of The Bhagavad Gita being discussed?

The author of the translation of The Bhagavad Gita being discussed is Eknath Easwaran.

What is the historical context in which The Bhagavad Gita was written?

The Bhagavad Gita was composed in the context of ancient India, specifically during the late Vedic period, around the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE. It is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, specifically in the Bhishma Parva (Book of Bhishma). The Gita is presented as a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer. Historically, this period witnessed significant philosophical developments in Indian thought, including the rise of varied religious traditions and the questioning of the existing social order. The Gita addresses the moral and philosophical dilemmas of warfare and duty (dharma), reflecting the societal strains of the time such as caste divisions and conflicting duties in crises. It integrates various philosophical ideas from the Upanishads and also responds to the challenges posed by different philosophical schools, including materialism and ritualism, making it a seminal text in both Hindu philosophy and the broader context of Indian spirituality.

What are the key philosophical teachings found in The Bhagavad Gita?

The Bhagavad Gita, as translated by Eknath Easwaran, presents several key philosophical teachings: Dharma (Righteous Duty): It emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one's duty according to one's role in society, suggesting that one should act in accordance with righteousness, without attachment to the results. Yoga: The Gita introduces various paths of yoga, including Karma Yoga (the yoga of action), Bhakti Yoga (the yoga of devotion), and Jnana Yoga (the yoga of knowledge). Each path serves as a means to achieve spiritual realization. Detachment: A significant teaching is the concept of performing one's duty with a sense of detachment, meaning one should not be overly attached to the outcomes of actions but should focus on the action itself. The Nature of the Self: The Gita explores the idea of the eternal self (Atman), highlighting the distinction between the physical body and the true self, which is unaffected by birth, death, or changes in the material world. Equanimity: It teaches the importance of equanimity in the face of success and failure, pleasure and pain, suggesting that maintaining a balanced state of mind is essential for spiritual growth. Devotion and Surrender: The text stresses the significance of surrendering to God and cultivating a sincere devotion, viewing this as a path to liberation from the cycle of life and death. These teachings are aimed at guiding individuals toward a life of purpose, harmony, and spiritual fulfillment.

How does The Bhagavad Gita address the concept of duty and righteousness?

In 'The Bhagavad Gita', the concept of duty (dharma) and righteousness is central to its teachings. It emphasizes that every individual has a specific role and responsibilities in life, which must be fulfilled according to their nature and circumstances. The text illustrates that performing one's duty, even in the face of challenges, is a path to spiritual growth and fulfillment. Arjuna, the protagonist, struggles with his duty as a warrior, facing emotional turmoil about fighting against his own kin. Krishna, his charioteer and guide, advises him that it is his dharma to fight as a warrior, and by doing so, he contributes to the greater good of society and upholds righteousness (dharma). The Gita teaches that actions should be taken selflessly and in alignment with one's duty while remaining detached from the fruits of those actions. This approach leads to a more profound understanding of righteousness, where ethical conduct is intertwined with one's responsibilities and the pursuit of truth and justice in the world.

The Bhagavad Gita

In 'The Bhagavad Gita', Eknath Easwaran presents a timeless dialogue between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. This profound text explores the moral dilemmas of war, duty, and the path to spiritual enlightenment. Easwaran's translation illuminates deep philosophical insights that resonate with modern struggles, encouraging readers to reflect on their own life choices. The Gita champions the interplay between action and devotion, revealing how one can find peace amid chaos. Prepare to embark on a transformative journey that challenges your understanding of purpose, ethics, and the essence of existence.

By Eknath Easwaran

Published: 2007

"You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of work. You should never be motivated by the reward of your work, nor long for inaction."

Spirituality and Religion Philosophy Spiritual Growth Eastern Religions

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What Readers Say About This Book

In the Bhagavad Gita, Prince Arjuna asks direct, uncompromising questions of his spiritual guide on the eve of a great battle. In this expanded edition of the most famous —and popular — of Indian criptures, Eknath Easwaran contextualizes the book culturally and historically and explains the key concepts of Hindu religious thought and the technical vocabulary of yoga. Chapter introductions, notes, and a glossary help readers understand the book’s message. Most importantly, this translation uses simple, clear language to impart the poetry, universality, and timelessness of the Gita’s teachings.

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Key Points from The Bhagavad Gita

In "The Bhagavad Gita," Easwaran emphasizes the centrality of 'dharma' or duty, which is pivotal to understanding the text's overarching philosophy. Dharma in the Gita is not merely a set of obligations; it represents the moral law that governs an individual's actions in accordance with their personal nature and social responsibilities. A prime example is the character of Arjuna, who grapples with his reluctance to engage in battle against his own relatives and mentors. His inner turmoil reflects a profound moral dilemma: the clash between his personal feelings and his duty as a warrior (Kshatriya). The Gita ultimately teaches that one must perform their duty without attachment to the outcomes—"Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana” (You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions). This principle is significant as it liberates individuals from the paralysis of overthinking the consequences of their actions and encourages them to act righteously, even amidst conflict. This theme also connects deeply to the broader argument of the text, which advocates for living a life of purpose and fulfillment through selfless action, thereby achieving spiritual growth and understanding through the performance of one's dharma.

About the Author

Eknath Easwaran

Eknath Easwaran (1910-1999) was an Indian author, translator, and spiritual teacher renowned for his work in the field of meditation and Eastern philosophy. He is best known for his translations of sacred texts, particularly the Bhagavad Gita and the Dhammapada, which are esteemed for their accessibility and depth. Easwaran's writing style is characterized by clarity, insightfulness, and a profound ability to connect ancient wisdom with contemporary life. His notable works include 'Meditation,' 'The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation,' and 'The Compassionate Samurai.' Easwaran's teachings focus on practical spirituality, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and compassion in daily living.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Eknath Easwaran
Published: May 2007
Publisher: Nilgiri Press
ISBN: 1586380192
Language: English
Pages: 298
Genres: PhilosophyEastern ReligionsSpiritual GrowthSpirituality and Religion

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“You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of work. You should never be motivated by the reward of your work, nor long for inaction.”

The Bhagavad Gita

By Eknath Easwaran

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Key Points from The Bhagavad Gita

In "The Bhagavad Gita," Easwaran emphasizes the centrality of 'dharma' or duty, which is pivotal to understanding the text's overarching philosophy. Dharma in the Gita is not merely a set of obligations; it represents the moral law that governs an individual's actions in accordance with their personal nature and social responsibilities. A prime example is the character of Arjuna, who grapples with his reluctance to engage in battle against his own relatives and mentors. His inner turmoil reflects a profound moral dilemma: the clash between his personal feelings and his duty as a warrior (Kshatriya). The Gita ultimately teaches that one must perform their duty without attachment to the outcomes—"Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana” (You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions). This principle is significant as it liberates individuals from the paralysis of overthinking the consequences of their actions and encourages them to act righteously, even amidst conflict. This theme also connects deeply to the broader argument of the text, which advocates for living a life of purpose and fulfillment through selfless action, thereby achieving spiritual growth and understanding through the performance of one's dharma.

The Bhagavad Gita

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What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from The Bhagavad Gita

About the Author

Eknath Easwaran

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