In the world of the Bhagavad Gita, there are two types of books you’ll encounter in a bookstore. One is the original text (or its translations), and the other is where authors try to relate Gita’s lessons to our modern lives. I’ve often wondered if we could bring these two together. Why do I feel that way? Let me explain.
If you opt for the original text, it can be a little overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with its religious or cultural background. On the other hand, choosing the modern interpretations might make you feel like you’re missing out on the real essence. That’s where Vandana R Singh’s The Bhagavad Gita: A Life-changing Conversation comes in handy. It not only sheds light on the Gita’s content but also offers a relatable interpretation for today’s reader without drifting from the original text.
The Bhagavad Gita, as you would know, is a timeless conversation between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna on the battlefield. Filled with insightful wisdom, it explores the complexities of duty, righteousness, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. There are 18 chapters and 700 verses. Singh’s book breaks it down into 18 chapters and 251 verses. So, it offers a more palatable version, and at the same time you can stay closely connected to the original message.
Three Yogas in the Bhagavad Gita
In the Bhagavad Gita, yoga is portrayed as a path to spiritual enlightenment and self-realisation. Yoga, in this context, is not just about physical postures, but a holistic practice that aligns the mind, body, and soul.
There are three kinds of yoga (or three paths to liberation) mentioned in the holy book. The first six chapters explore Karma Yoga, the next six discuss Bhakti Yoga, and the final six delve into Jnana Yoga. Let me briefly touch upon them.
Karma Yoga
Karma Yoga is the path of selfless action and duty. It emphasises performing one’s duties without attachment to the results. As the famous verse goes:
कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन।
मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि।।
Translation: You have a right to perform your assigned duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never think of yourself to be the cause of the results of your efforts, nor should you be attached to inaction.
The Bhagavad Gita (2.47)
Think of yourself as a diligent gardener; you sow the seeds of intention, nurture the plants of effort, and let go of expectations. In this garden of detachment, the blossoms of selfless action fill the air, and the weeds of desire are uprooted, leaving behind a landscape adorned with the beauty of spiritual deeds.
Bhakti Yoga
Bhakti Yoga is the path of devotion and love towards a higher divine entity. It involves surrendering oneself completely to God with love and faith.
अनन्याश्चिन्तयन्तो मां ये जना: पर्युपासते |
तेषां नित्याभियुक्तानां योगक्षेमं वहाम्यहम् ||Translation: There are those who always think of Me and engage in exclusive devotion to Me. To them, whose minds are always absorbed in Me, I provide what they lack and preserve what they already possess.
The Bhagavad Gita (9.22)
This sounds like the idea of religion, doesn’t it? That’s the incredible beauty of the Gita. While we often consider it a part of religion, it’s the other way around. The Gita encompasses a myriad of spiritual avenues, embracing both faith and scepticism within its profound teachings.
Jnana Yoga
Jnana Yoga is the path of knowledge and wisdom. It involves self-inquiry and understanding the nature of reality to attain spiritual enlightenment.
न हि ज्ञानेन सदृशं पवित्रमिह विद्यते |
तत्स्वयं योगसंसिद्ध: कालेनात्मनि विन्दति ||Translation: In this world, there is nothing as purifying as divine knowledge. One who has attained purity of mind through prolonged practice of Yog, receives such knowledge within the heart, in due course of time.
The Bhagavad Gita (4.38)
Krishna encourages us to seek and pursue knowledge throughout our lives. He invites us to navigate this cosmic journey where the clouds of ignorance part, revealing the timeless constellations of spiritual understanding.
A Contemporary Conversation
The Bhagavad Gita: A Life-changing Conversation is a straightforward guide that doesn’t only connect the ancient with the modern but also makes the ancient teachings of the Gita accessible to anyone on the journey of self-discovery.
What makes this book remarkable is the fact that the author understands where her reader is coming from. Having grown up in a non-ritualistic family, Singh candidly acknowledges a distant familiarity with the text that most of us possess. Instead of a religious lens, she unfolds the Bhagavad Gita with the precision of reason, inviting the reader to dive into its depths and collect the pearls that are most suited for pur times.
So, if you find yourself in the unavoidable conundrum of life’s purpose, this unique perspective might just be the enlightening gateway into the profound teachings of the Gita. You can also check out this podcast by Vandana R Singh where she regularly discusses the Gita from a contemporary perspective.
Kalampedia 