Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 73 & 74

31st December 2024

Delusion caused by ignorance is a key factor that sustains samsara. Arjuna's situation reflects the dilemma we all face: What is our life's priority? Should we focus on doing what we do with the right mindset in order to achieve ultimate emancipation, or should we simply manage our daily affairs and let life pass us by until we die?

In this context, Arjuna expresses four important realizations in response to Lord Krishna's questions: the destruction of delusion, the regaining of memory, the dissolution of doubt, and surrender to God's will.

Knowing the illusion of the world can dispel delusion. By becoming aware of the eternal nature of the Self, we can reclaim our true identity. Doubts regarding life's priorities vanish when we understand that the ultimate goal of life is liberation. Surrendering to God is essential for working in the world while fulfilling His will.

Sanjay reports to Dhritarashtra that he listened to the extraordinary conversation between Vasudeva (Lord Krishna) and the great-souled Partha (Arjuna), a discussion so profound that it could make one's hair stand on end.

 

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 71 & 72

30th December 2024

In the second chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna makes a profound statement: some people see the Self with great wonder; some speak about it with awe; others listen to it with amazement, while some still do not understand even after listening. 

At the end of His conversation with Arjuna, the Lord declares, "Anyone who reverently hears this conversation will become free and shall attain the blessed worlds of the virtuous." 

Much of what we learn in life comes from listening. As children, we listened to our parents and teachers, and later we continued our education by learning from experts in our fields. 

On the path to spiritual growth, "listening with attention" to the Guru, who imparts knowledge of the Self, is of utmost importance. Even the Lord Himself asks Arjuna if he has listened attentively and whether the delusion he previously had about his duty has been dispelled.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 69 & 70

29th December 2024

Why do we worship Hanumanji equally with other forms of God? He was primarily a messenger of God and an ardent servant. However, a messenger of God holds a special place in His heart. 

In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna states that there is no one more accomplished in His eyes than someone who teaches the knowledge contained within it.

Pujya Gurudev, when he began giving public lectures on the Bhagavad Gita, referred to it as Geeta Gyana Yagna. Typically, the term "yagna" is associated with fire sacrifices in which holy offerings are made to the deity being worshipped.

Gurudev thoughtfully followed Lord Krishna's declaration: "My assessment is that I will be worshipped by those who study the sacred conversation between Myself and you, which is a form of knowledge sacrifice (Gyana Yagna)."

Gurudev explained that in this sacrifice, the fire represents knowledge, while ignorance is what is being sacrificed.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 67 & 68

28th December 2024

Knowledge is precious for those who understand its value. Just as an uncut diamond may not appeal to anyone, knowledge without the refinement of the mind will remain mere information. 

Lord Krishna advises Arjuna that what is taught to him should not be shared with those who are not austere or devoted to God. True devotion is manifested through serving God by serving His creation. 

Moreover, anyone who lacks the spirit of service and disrespects God is not qualified to receive this knowledge. So, who is truly qualified to convey this wisdom? 

A genuine devotee of God who shares the sacred teachings of the Bhagavad Gita with fellow devotees will undoubtedly attain divine stature.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 65 & 66

27th December 2024

Guru tirelessly emphasizes the importance of self-improvement to his disciples, reminding them not to lose sight of this amid the overwhelming power of habits and tendencies. 

Lord Krishna also reiterates his guidance to Arjuna, saying: "You will come to Me if you fix your mind on Me, remain My devotee, make sacrifices to Me, and pay homage to Me. Since you are very dear to Me, I promise you this." 

The most frequently quoted verse from the Bhagavad Gita states: "Renouncing all forms of rites and duties, take refuge in Me alone. Do not grieve. I will free you from all sins."

The question arises: Should one surrender to God first and then renounce the duties, or should one renounce first and then surrender? The act of renunciation cannot occur without first surrendering to God. No one will give up anything unless there is a greater gain to be found. The greatest gain is God's love. It is only upon realizing this that one will surrender, which will naturally lead to renunciation.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 63 & 64

26th December 2024

The greatness of Hindu masters lies in their approach: they never impose a specific path on anyone. The Vedas, Puranas, and other spiritual literature are filled with wise suggestions and teachings rather than strict commandments.

In this context, Lord Krishna offers Arjuna a final piece of advice: "I have imparted to you knowledge that is more secret than any secret. Reflect on this as a whole, and then do as you wish."

The Guru assesses the maturity of the disciple, allowing him to make the right choice. Again, Lord Krishna emphasizes to Arjuna the profound nature of the knowledge he has received. 

Krishna holds Arjuna dear and shares the knowledge of the Self with him to help him discover his own freedom.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 61 & 62

25th December 2024

How can we respond to situations in a sattvic manner? One way is to closely follow the guidelines of the scriptures or the teachings of a spiritual guide. 

Additionally, if we understand that the Lord resides in the hearts of all beings and orchestrates our life experiences, we can better determine our responses through devotion to Him. 

It's important to recognize that the Lord is facilitating our growth, both by addressing our inner tendencies (vasanas) and by presenting various external situations through interactions with objects and other beings. After all, He is present both within us and around us, managing everything for the benefit of all. 

Lord Krishna offers significant advice to Arjuna: "Take refuge in Him alone with your whole being. Through His grace, you will attain supreme peace and the eternal abode."

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 59 & 60

24th December 2024

The feeling of independence that we all experience stems from our strong belief that we can determine the course of our lives. Many of the decisions we make significantly impact our lives. 

However, the actions from our past lives influence our current situations, which we cannot avoid. Lord Krishna warns Arjuna, saying, "If you believe you should not fight because of your ego, your determination will be futile. Nature will compel you!"

Does this mean we have no choice but to accept what is destined? We often mistakenly view destiny as a force that moves us from one situation to another without any choice. 

This misconception is not accurate. We have the ability to choose how to respond to unavoidable situations that are beyond our control. In ancient times, individuals were expected to fulfill their duties according to their societal class. Today, we must recognize that our inclinations arise from the qualities of Nature: Sattvic, Rajasic, or Tamasic.

We always have the choice to consciously respond to situations in a Sattvic manner. This choice represents our free will, which is separate from the circumstances we face.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 57 & 58

23rd December 2024

The main purpose of Lord Krishna's conversation with Arjuna is to clarify Arjuna's confusion regarding his duty as a warrior. This message resonates with all of us. 

We should seek to understand and be inspired by the ultimate goal of life, which is liberation, while also fulfilling our immediate responsibilities without attachment or aversion.

Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to mentally surrender all actions to Him by recognizing Him as the supreme being. He instructs Arjuna to keep his mind consistently focused on Him through concentrated thought. 

When our minds are fixed on God, we can be assured of receiving His grace to overcome any obstacles. 

However, if we allow our sense of ego to distract us from this focus, we limit our potential for freedom and hinder our spiritual progress.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 55 & 56

22nd December 2024

In the school of Advaita Vedanta, God is considered a relative manifestation of Brahman. This is because the absolute reality, Brahman, never undergoes any change. However, it is natural for those who abide in the Self, or Brahman, to feel devotion towards God.

One who realizes one's own Brahman nature does not remain separate from Brahman. This experience is often symbolically described as "entering into Brahman." It can be likened to moving away from a mirror; when you distance yourself, you no longer see your reflection, as if the image has merged with your own essence.

A person who has renounced worldly attachments has no further duties in the world. Nevertheless, while living in the body until prarabdha karma is exhausted, he may continue to engage in all actions.

Lord Krishna clarifies: 'For such an individual, I am the refuge, and through My grace, he will attain the eternal and immutable state.'

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 53 & 54

21st December 2024

Lord Krishna continues to outline the process of renunciation that leads to the abode of Brahman:

10. Discarding the ego-sense: This involves letting go of the thoughts of 'I' and 'I want.'

11. Absence of aggression: Taking the right action assertively, rather than aggressively, in various situations.

12. Devoid of pride: Avoiding an overestimation of oneself that seeks attention from others.

13. Being desireless*: Recognizing that the personal projections of happiness are the root of desire.

14. Free from anger: Understanding that anger is one pathway to suffering, even in this life.

15. Non-possessive: Realizing that no one truly owns anything, including one's body; everything is ultimately God's property.

16. Disowning identification with objects and people: Releasing attachment to material possessions and relationships.

17. Being serene: Remaining steady and grounded in Self-awareness.

Achieving unity with Brahman leads to total bliss, leaving no room for grief or desire. One who reaches this state will possess complete devotion to the Lord and compassion for His creation.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 51 & 52

20th December 2024

The process of renunciation can be explained through several key requirements:

1. Purity of Intellect: This involves the absence of all vasanas (latent desires).

2. Self-Control: One must possess total determination fueled by an intense desire for liberation.

3. Dispassion Towards Sense Objects: Understanding the illusory nature of sense objects is essential for dispassion.

4. Overcoming Likes and Dislikes: It is important to rise above personal preferences.

5. Seeking Solitude: Finding complete oneness with one's inner Self is crucial.

6. Mindful Eating: One should only eat when necessary to maintain the body.

7. Scrutiny of Speech, Body, and Mind: Keeping these elements under constant observation is vital.

8. Prioritizing Contemplation and Meditation: Treating contemplation and meditation as the highest duties of daily life is essential.

9. Total Dispassion Towards Worldly Gains: This includes a detachment from material possessions as well as from concerns about the afterlife.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 49 & 50

19th December 2024

If one is always engaged in worldly duties, where does it all lead? When does a person attain true freedom? The simple truth is that detachment is the key to freedom. 

We observe that we are not disturbed by things we do not depend on, derive happiness from, or identify with.

Lord Krishna reveals an essential truth: "He whose intellect is unattached to everything, desireless, and who has conquered his internal passions attains the supreme state of perfection—freedom from duties through renunciation."

This state of perfection is known as Brahman, the Absolute Reality, and it represents the culmination of wisdom. Lord Krishna proceeds to explain the process of achieving this state.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 47 & 48

18th December 2024

Lord Krishna advises Arjuna: "Performing one’s own duty, even if it seems flawed, is superior to executing another's duty perfectly. By fulfilling a duty aligned with one’s own nature, one does not incur sin."

There is a short story from the Mahabharata about an ascetic who, after years of intense tapas (spiritual practice), discovered that his words had the power to create realities. When a crow kept disturbing him, he cursed it, and the bird fell dead at his command.

Later, the ascetic approached a woman in the village to seek alms. She was occupied serving her family and requested him to wait. Growing restless, the ascetic prepared to curse her as well, but she replied, "I am not like the crow." This bewildered him, and she continued, "There is no need to spend years in tapas; sincerely performing one’s own duty is, in itself, a form of tapas for a householder."

Due to the consequences of actions from past lives, individuals are born into specific societal roles. One should not abandon their duty merely out of personal dislike. No action is devoid of flaws, just as fire always has smoke!

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 45 & 46

17th December 2024

When we examine our bodies, we notice that each organ plays a specific role in ensuring the entire body functions efficiently. None of the organs compete with one another; instead, they complement and support each other.

Similarly, the four societal classes should engage in their designated roles effectively for both individual and collective success. 

If one class fails to fulfill its responsibilities, the efficiency of the entire society or organization is compromised.

True success for an individual lies in aligning personal goals with collective ones. Just as the hand that picks up food to eat does so not just for itself but for the nourishment and well-being of the entire body, a person achieves success by fulfilling the duties in a way that honors the One from whom all creatures are born and by whom everything, including oneself, is permeated.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 43 & 44

16th December 2024

A safe society will experience progressive and prosperous growth compared to one that endures continuous internal conflicts and insecurity. 

The warrior class, as the natural heroes of society, must remain bold, develop their skills for warfare, exhibit fortitude, and never retreat from battle. Additionally, they should demonstrate qualities of generosity and leadership.

Economic and financial stability are crucial for any society, much like in a family. Traders, by nature, are inclined to manage resources effectively, and their responsibilities include agriculture, trade, and the rearing of livestock.

For the efficient functioning of all three societal classes, many small and large manual services are necessary, which fall under the natural duties of the labor class.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 41 & 42

15th December 2024

The division of labor is essential for completing any significant task that involves many people within an organization or society. Each individual contributes their knowledge and skills to achieve a common goal.

Lord Krishna previously noted that he intentionally organized society into four distinct groups based on their qualities of thought and action: priests, warriors, traders, and the labor class. Each group has specific responsibilities.

Among these four categories, the priests possess the natural quality of Sattva. They should focus on training both their internal and external faculties, practice austerity, maintain purity, cultivate forgiveness, adhere faithfully to scriptures, and act with integrity in all matters.

Since their primary role involves religious and spiritual activities, the integrity, honesty, and selfless nature of the priests are highly respected and valued within society.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 39 & 40

14th December 2024

A Tamasic person, steeped in laziness and the darkness of ignorance, finds happiness in remaining unproductive and being in a state of inactivity. They are comparable to stones, trees, wild animals, and other inert objects.

In the story of the Ramayana, these three qualities—Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas—are distinctly portrayed through three brothers: Vibhishana, Ravana, and Kumbhakarna. 

Vibhishana, despite living in the kingdom of the Rakshasas, remained devoted to God and embodied Sattvik qualities. Ravana represented qualities associated with Rajas, while Kumbhakarna epitomized Tamas.

According to Vedanta philosophy, the entire creation arises from the power of God, known as Maya, which encompasses these three qualities. Thus, nothing in existence can be free from one or more of these qualities.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 37 & 38

13th December 2024

Spiritual progress is often compared to climbing a steep mountain. Each step requires not only a strong grip but also unwavering focus. 

The journey can be strenuous and challenging, particularly when it comes to letting go of old habits and the persistent tendencies (vasanas) that we all carry.

However, with a pure mind, one can endure this struggle, which may initially feel toxic but ultimately leads to a profound happiness akin to nectar—this is the bliss that arises from Sattva.

On the other hand, if one seeks immediate pleasures through the senses' contact with external objects, this is referred to as Rajasic happiness. 

While such pleasures may seem appealing, attractive, and easy to attain at first, they tend to drain energy and lead to loss and fatigue over time.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 35 & 36

12th December 2024

The nature of the body is inertia. When individuals strongly identify with their bodies, their daily lives become focused on seeking comfort and pleasure. 

Even a person exhibiting Tamasic qualities, who may have a deluded intellect, can display fortitude. For them, prioritizing sleep and sensuality becomes paramount. Their waking experiences are often filled with fear, sorrow, and despondency.

Next, Lord Krishna discusses the three types of happiness influenced by the three qualities of nature. Most people are driven by their habits; thus, their pursuit of happiness often stems from a desire to end their sorrow. 

For some, happiness is linked to achieving their desires. However, only a few recognize that true happiness comes from within, as a realization of one's own Self.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 33 & 34

11th December 2024

Steadfastness or fortitude is essential for achieving substantial success. The biographies of every successful person highlight the importance of having a constant purpose. This principle also applies to the pursuit of liberation.

 

In spiritual terms, fortitude is an internal quality. A Sattvic mind is characterized by deep concentration and firm control over thoughts, energies, and sense organs. 

Hindu scriptures teach about dharma, which serves two primary purposes: one is to achieve merits that lead to heavenly rewards, and the other is to attain purity of mind. 

However, both of these goals cannot be pursued simultaneously by the same person, as one focuses on selfish gain while the other emphasizes the release of selfishness.

 

A Sattvic mind seeks dharma to achieve purity of mind, whereas a Rajasic mind is primarily driven by worldly gains such as wealth, respect, and pleasure.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 31 & 32

10th December 2024

In the absence of a clear understanding of the ultimate purpose of human life, the intellect that focuses solely on immediate gains and worldly prosperity is referred to as the Rajasic intellect. 

This type of intellect misinterprets the concepts of virtue and vice, leading individuals to view popular practices as virtuous and anything that does not serve selfish interests as vice, including spiritual pursuits.

The confusion extends to understanding what actions should be taken and which should be avoided. The situation is even more dire for the Tamasic intellect. 

Characterized by laziness, ignorance, and distortion, a Tamasic intellect remains shrouded in darkness, misunderstanding virtue as vice and vice as virtue. It approaches all worldly engagements with a fundamentally misguided perspective.

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Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 29 & 30

9th December 2024

When you place a vessel filled with water on a gas stove, the fire first reaches the burner, and then the heat from the flame warms the vessel until the water boils. 

Similarly, Pure Consciousness initially reflects in our intellect, allowing us to become aware of the thoughts in our minds. These thoughts then prompt actions and reactions through our bodies.

Lord Krishna examined knowledge, action, and the actor about the three qualities. Now, he begins discussing the three types of intellect and fortitude based on these qualities.

The intellect that is predominantly Sattvic recognizes when to act and when to refrain from action. Its engagement in activity is not driven by selfish motives, nor does it withdraw out of fear of failure or laziness. It understands what causes fear and what does not.

It is aware of what constitutes duty and what does not, as well as having clear insight into concepts of bondage and liberation.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 27 & 28

8th December 2024

Success often leads to more success, but it’s important to consider what it costs to achieve it. Frequently, success comes with various drawbacks, including strained relationships, stress, and personal sacrifices.

A Rajasic doer is primarily focused on their success. They have a strong attachment to the outcomes of their actions and are often covetous, harsh, and impure in nature. As a result, they experience the ups and downs that come with their achievements.

On the other hand, some individuals avoid effort altogether and instead benefit from the work of others. They tend to remain stagnant, ignorant, and stuck in the darkness of delusion.

Lord Krishna describes the characteristics of a Tamasic doer: "He who is unsteady, naive, unbending, deceitful, wicked, lazy, morose, and procrastinating."

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 25 & 26

7th December 2024

When there is a lack of maturity in thinking, individuals often imitate those around them. This behavior is common among teenagers and young adults. 

However, even after reaching adulthood, if one engages in actions without considering one's own abilities to carry them out, the potential consequences, or the risk of losing resources and harming relationships, this is referred to as Tamasic action.

In contrast, what characterizes a Sattvic doer? For a Sattvic person, the thoughts directly translate into action. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the mindset of someone who embodies Sattvic qualities. 

Lord Krishna explains that a Sattvic doer is free from attachment and does not act from a place of egotism. He possesses fortitude and diligence, remaining unperturbed by both success and failure.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 23 & 24

6th December 2024

Who is considered a good person? The common answer is someone who does good deeds. But what exactly constitutes a good action? According to Lord Krishna, good action goes beyond simply doing good.

Sattvic action involves performing daily duties without attachment, free from likes and dislikes, and without seeking rewards. 

Some individuals may engage in good actions, such as building community hospitals, schools, and temples, but they do so with an attachment to the actions and their outcomes. 

Because they lack the Sattvic attitude of detachment, they perform these deeds driven by ego and experience significant mental strain. Lord Krishna describes this approach as Rajasic action.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 21 & 22

5th December 2024

What is taught in universities and all educational institutions primarily focuses on knowledge concerning varieties, classifications, and divisions based on scientific analysis of differences in characteristics and functions of various subjects. 

This is what is referred to as Rajasic knowledge. However, when one only looks for differences, how can one attain a vision of Oneness? And without unifying knowledge, how can we hope for peace in the world?

Unfortunately, we have deviated from this understanding as well. Tamasic knowledge is unscientific and represents a fanatic perception of the world. Those who possess this type of knowledge cling to a singular idea, ideology, faith, or false conviction, rejecting all others. 

This approach to life is particularly dangerous. A person guided by such knowledge is likely to foster discord, destruction, and disunity among people.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 19 & 20

4th December 2024

The uniqueness of each soul lies in the quality of its thoughts. These thoughts can be categorized as Sattvik, Rajasik, or Tamasik. 

In the realm of action, the interplay of knowledge, action, and the doer reflects the quality of these thoughts. As a result, the soul experiences the outcomes of its actions both during life and after death.

To begin, Lord Krishna discusses Sattvik knowledge. A person with noble thoughts and devotion to the higher Self perceives a singular, undivided essence in all diverse forms. 

This understanding of Oneness brings lasting peace and fosters infinite compassion toward all living beings, regardless of caste, color, creed, culture, race, or region.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 17 & 18

3rd December 2024

From the perspective of a realized person who still participates in worldly activities, the notion of "I am the doer" is entirely absent. Without ego, his intellect remains untainted. Even if he is a warrior required to take lives on the battlefield as part of their duty, he will not be considered a sinner.

 

What drives a person to act and achieve in this world? Lord Krishna explains this through several factors. 

 

First is knowledge. Only humans engage in action with a plan, purpose, and a desire to enhance their performance. 

 

Second is the object of knowledge. The desire to obtain or possess this object motivates a person to act. 

 

Third is the knower, interested in pursuing actions that can fulfill or satisfy him. This knower interacts with five components of action, which can be summarized into three: the instruments of action (karanam), the activity (karma), and the doer (karta).

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 15 & 16

2nd December 2024

There are three broad types of actions that every human engages in during daily life. Firstly, most daily activities are performed by the body, such as walking, eating, and driving. We use our sense organs to see, hear, taste, and interact with the world around us. 

Secondly, we have speech, which serves as a crucial means of communication. As humans, we are equipped with this faculty and extensively use it to express ourselves. 

The third type of action is thinking, which distinguishes humans from all other beings. Regardless of whether these actions are moral or immoral, they fall into one of these three categories. 

Importantly, the pure Self remains uninvolved in these actions. If someone with a distorted understanding of the Self mistakenly believes that the Self is the 'doer' of all actions, they lack a correct understanding of their own identity.

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 13 & 14

1st December 2024

Lord Krishna now turns his attention to the concept of action to enlighten Arjuna. He explains the key components involved in any action. 

There are essentially five factors necessary for the completion of all actions. Ultimately, these factors will be understood through the knowledge of Vedanta, which can help one transcend all actions.

The first factor is the body, which serves as the means through which actions are performed. The second factor is the individual soul, which engages in action to obtain the results. The third factor includes the instruments of action, such as hands and speech. 

The fourth factor is the variety of actions performed, along with the movement of energies that activate the senses. Finally, the fifth factor consists of the presiding deities that empower various organs; for example, the Sun provides energy for the eyes, while the Moon influences the mind.