Category Archives: Bhagavad Gita

Bhagavad Gita Dhyanam: Explanation and Meanings

The Bhagavad Gita Dhyanam (Bhagavad Gita Meditation) serves as a preliminary practice before studying the Bhagavad Gita, fostering a reverential attitude, focusing the mind, and invoking the blessings of the divine. By meditating and chanting these verses, individuals establish a connection with the profound wisdom contained in the Gita and prepare themselves to receive and contemplate its teachings in their everyday lives.
Guruji, Sri Amit Ray, always said, “By integrating the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita into your daily life, you can cultivate inner growth, find meaning and purpose, and develop a greater sense of harmony and well-being.”


ध्यानम्
ओं पार्थाय प्रतिबोधितां भगवता नारायणेन स्वयम्
व्यासेन ग्रथितां पुराणमुनिना मध्ये महाभारतम्।
अद्वैतामृतवर्षिणीं भगवतीमष्टादशाध्यायिनीम्
अम्ब त्वामनुसन्दधामि भगवद्गीते भवद्वेषिणीम्॥१॥
नमोऽस्तु ते व्यास विशालबुद्धे फुल्लारविन्दायतपत्रनेत्र।
येन त्वया भारततैलपूर्णः प्रज्वालितो ज्ञानमयः प्रदीपः॥२॥
प्रपन्नपारिजाताय तोत्रवेत्रैकपाणये।
ज्ञानमुद्राय कृष्णाय गीतामृतदुहे नमः॥३॥
सर्वोपनिषदो गावो दोग्धा गोपाल-नन्दनः।
पार्थो वत्सः सुधीर्भोक्ता दुग्धं गीतामृतं महत्॥४॥
वसुदेवसुतं देवं कंसचाणूरमर्दनम्।
देवकीपरमानन्दं कृष्णं वन्दे जगद्गुरुम्॥५॥
भीष्मद्रोणतटा जयद्रथजला गान्धारनीलोपला
शल्यग्राहवती कृपेण वहनी कर्णेन वेलाकुला।
अश्वत्थामविकर्णघोरमकरा दुर्योधनावर्तिनी
सोत्तीर्णा खलु पाण्डवै रणनदी कैवर्तकः केशवः॥६॥
पाराशर्यवचः सरोजममलं गीतार्थगन्धोत्कटम्
नानाख्यानककेसरं हरिकथासम्बोधनाबोधितम्।
लोके सज्जनषट्पदैरहरहः पेपीयमानं मुदा
भूयाद्भारतपङ्कजं कलिमलप्रध्वंसि नः श्रेयसे॥७॥
मूकं करोति वाचालं पङ्गुं लङ्घयते गिरिम्।
यत्कृपा तमहं वन्दे परमानन्दमाधवम्॥८॥
यं ब्रह्मा वरुणेन्द्र-रुद्र-मरुतः स्तुवन्ति दिव्यैः स्तवैः
वेदैः साङ्ग-पद-क्रमोपनिषदैर्गायन्ति यं सामगाः।
ध्यानावस्थित-तद्गतेन मनसा पश्यन्ति यं योगिनः
यस्यान्तं न विदुः सुरासुर-गणा देवाय तस्मै नमः॥९॥
नारायणं नमस्कृत्य नरं चैव नरोत्तमम्।
देवीं सरस्वतीं व्यासं ततो जयमुदीरयेत्॥१०॥


Dhyānam
oṃ pārthāya pratibodhitāṃ bhagavatā nārāyaṇena svayam
vyāsena grathitāṃ purāṇamuninā madhye mahābhāratam।
advaitāmṛtavarṣiṇīṃ bhagavatīmaṣṭādaśādhyāyinīm
amba tvāmanusandadhāmi bhagavadgīte bhavadveṣiṇīm॥1॥
namo’stu te vyāsa viśālabuddhe phullāravindāyatapatranetra।
yena tvayā bhāratatailapūrṇaḥ prajvālito jñānamayaḥ pradīpaḥ॥2॥
prapannapārijātāya totravetraikapāṇaye।
jñānamudrāya kṛṣṇāya gītāmṛtaduhe namaḥ॥3॥
sarvopaniṣado gāvo dogdhā gopāla-nandanaḥ।
pārtho vatsaḥ sudhīrbhoktā dugdhaṃ gītāmṛtaṃ mahat॥4॥
vasudevasutaṃ devaṃ kaṃsacāṇūramardanam।
devakīparamānandaṃ kṛṣṇaṃ vande jagadgurum॥5॥
bhīṣmadroṇataṭā jayadrathajalā gāndhāranīlopalā
śalyagrāhavatī kṛpeṇa vahanī karṇena velākulā।
aśvatthāmavikarṇaghoramakarā duryodhanāvartinī
sottīrṇā khalu pāṇḍavai raṇanadī kaivartakaḥ keśavaḥ॥6॥
pārāśaryavacaḥ sarojamamalaṃ gītārthagandhotkaṭam
nānākhyānakakesaraṃ harikathāsambodhanābodhitam।
loke sajjanaṣaṭpadairaharahaḥ pepīyamānaṃ mudā
bhūyādbhāratapaṅkajaṃ kalimalapradhvaṃsi naḥ śreyase॥7॥
mūkaṃ karoti vācālaṃ paṅguṃ laṅghayate girim।
yatkṛpā tamahaṃ vande paramānandamādhavam॥8॥
yaṃ brahmā varuṇendra-rudra-marutaḥ stuvanti divyaiḥ stavaiḥ
vedaiḥ sāṅga-pada-kramopaniṣadairgāyanti yaṃ sāmagāḥ।
dhyānāvasthita-tadgatena manasā paśyanti yaṃ yoginaḥ
yasyāntaṃ na viduḥ surāsura-gaṇā devāya tasmai namaḥ॥9॥
nārāyaṇaṃ namaskṛtya naraṃ caiva narottamam।
devīṃ sarasvatīṃ vyāsaṃ tato jayamudīrayet॥10॥

Explanation and Meanings:

Here are some key points highlighting the importance of Bhagavad Gita Dhyanam in everyday life:

Invocation and Focus: The recitation of the Dhyanam verses acts as an invocation, setting the tone for studying the Bhagavad Gita. It helps to establish a focused and contemplative mindset, preparing the individual to delve into the profound spiritual teachings of the text.

Reverence for Divine Guidance: The verses express deep reverence for Lord Krishna as the divine teacher and Guru. By paying homage to Narayana (a form of Lord Vishnu), the verses acknowledge the divine nature of the Bhagavad Gita and its potential to guide and enlighten seekers on their spiritual journey.

Acknowledgment of the Author: The Dhyanam verses also pay tribute to Sage Vyasa, who compiled the Mahabharata and wrote the Bhagavad Gita. Recognizing Vyasa’s role emphasizes the authenticity and authority of the text, instilling confidence in the reader about the profound knowledge and insights it contains.

Immersion in the Nectar of Non-Duality: The verses describe the Bhagavad Gita as the “Amrita Varshini,” the stream of immortal nectar. This implies that the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are not only insightful but also have the potential to bring about a profound transformation in the seeker’s consciousness. By immersing oneself in the Gita’s wisdom, one can gradually transcend the limitations of duality and realize the unity of all existence.

Connection to the Universal Truth: The Dhyanam verses proclaim the Bhagavad Gita as the essence of all Upanishads and the song sung by Lord Krishna, the teacher of the universe. This suggests that the teachings of the Gita encompass the wisdom found in various scriptures and encapsulate the eternal truths of life. By studying and contemplating the Gita, one aligns themselves with these universal principles and gains a deeper understanding of their own existence.

Overcoming Ignorance and Attaining Liberation: The concluding verses of the Dhyanam express a desire for the removal of ignorance and the attainment of liberation. They seek the blessings of Lord Krishna, who is described as the destroyer of the demons Kansa and Chanura, and the source of supreme bliss. This implies that by studying and imbibing the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, one can overcome the inner obstacles and attain spiritual liberation and ultimate joy.

 

Bhagavad Gita Kara Nyasa and Hridayadi Nyasa

The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of aligning knowledge and action. It teaches that true wisdom is not merely intellectual understanding but the practical application of that understanding in everyday life. In the words of the great master, Sri Amit Ray, “By practicing Karnyaasah, one activates and purifies the hand chakras with the heart and brain chakras, which helps individuals bridge the gap between theory and practice, thereby ensuring that their actions are in line with their spiritual understanding.”

Nyaasah ( (also spelled as “Nyasa”) is not merely a physical or mechanical act but is performed with deep reverence, concentration, and intention. It serves as a means to enhance the practitioner’s spiritual experience, deepen their connection with the divine, and attune their consciousness to higher states of awareness.

Bhagavad Gita Karnyaasah:

॥करन्यासः॥

ओं अस्य श्रीमद्भगवद्गीतामालामन्त्रस्य।
भगवान्वेदव्यास ऋषिः।
अनुष्टुप् छन्दः।
श्रीकृष्ण परमात्मा देवता।
अशोच्यानन्वशोचस्त्वं प्रज्ञावादांश्च भाषसे इति बीजम्।
सर्वधर्मान् परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणं व्रज इति शक्तिः।
अहं त्वा सर्वपापेभ्यो मोक्षयिष्यामि मा शुच इति कीलकम्।
नैनं छिन्दन्ति शस्त्राणि नैनं दहति पावक इत्यङ्गुष्ठाभ्यां नमः।
न चैनं क्लेदयन्त्यापो न शोषयति मारुत इति तर्जनीभ्यां नमः।
अच्छेद्योऽयमदाह्योऽयमक्लेद्योऽशोष्य एव च इति मध्यमाभ्यां नमः।
नित्यः सर्वगतः स्थाणुरचलोऽयं सनातन इत्यनामिकाभ्यां नमः।
पश्य मे पार्थ रूपाणि शतशोऽथ सहस्रश इति कनिष्ठिकाभ्यां नमः।
नानाविधानि दिव्यानि नानावर्णाकृतीनि च इति करतलकरपृष्ठाभ्यां नमः।
॥इति करन्यासः॥

॥karanyāsaḥ॥

oṃ asya śrīmadbhagavadgītāmālāmantrasya।
bhagavān-Vedavyāsa ṛṣiḥ
anuṣṭup chandaḥ
śrīkṛṣṇa paramātmā devatā
aśocyānanvaśocastvaṃ prajñāvādāṃśca bhāṣase iti bījam
sarvadharmān parityajya māmekaṃ śaraṇaṃ vraja iti śaktiḥ
ahaṃ tvā sarvapāpebhyo mokṣayiṣyāmi mā śuca iti kīlakam

nainaṃ chindanti śastrāṇi nainaṃ dahati pāvaka ityaṅguṣṭhābhyāṃ namaḥ।
na cainaṃ kledayantyāpo na śoṣayati māruta iti tarjanībhyāṃ namaḥ।
acchedyo’yamadāhyo’yamakledyo’śoṣya eva ca iti madhyamābhyāṃ namaḥ।
nityaḥ sarvagataḥ sthāṇuracalo’yaṃ sanātana ityanāmikābhyāṃ namaḥ।
paśya me pārtha rūpāṇi śataśo’tha sahasraśa iti kaniṣṭhikābhyāṃ namaḥ।
nānāvidhāni divyāni nānāvarṇākṛtīni ca iti karatalakarapṛṣṭhābhyāṃ namaḥ।
॥iti karanyāsaḥ॥

Bhagavad Gita Hridayadi Nyaasah:

The Gita addresses profound existential questions and provides insights into the nature of life, duty, righteousness, and the path to spiritual liberation. The importance of  hridayadi nyaasah lies in its practical application and relevance in our daily lives. It purifies and awaken the divine aspects of the heart, head, and eyes, which serve as symbols of spiritual power and perception.

॥हृदयादि न्यासः॥

नैनं छिन्दन्ति शस्त्राणि नैनं दहति पावक इति हृदयाय नमः।
न चैनं क्लेदयन्त्यापो न शोषयति मारुत इति शिरसे स्वाहा।
अच्छेद्योऽयमदाह्योऽयमक्लेद्योऽशोष्य एव चेति शिखायै वषट्।
नित्यः सर्वगतः स्थाणुरचलोऽयं सनातन इति कवचाय हुम्।
पश्य मे पार्थ रूपाणि शतशोऽथ सहस्रश इति नेत्रत्रयाय वौषट्।
नानाविधानि दिव्यानि नानावर्णाकृतीनि चेति अस्त्राय फट्।
॥श्रीकृष्णप्रीत्यर्थे पाठे विनियोगः॥

॥hṛdayādi nyāsaḥ॥

nainaṃ chindanti śastrāṇi nainaṃ dahati pāvaka iti hṛdayāya namaḥ।
na cainaṃ kledayantyāpo na śoṣayati māruta iti śirase svāhā।
acchedyo’yamadāhyo’yamakledyo’śoṣya eva ceti śikhāyai vaṣaṭ।
nityaḥ sarvagataḥ sthāṇuracalo’yaṃ sanātana iti kavacāya hum।
paśya me pārtha rūpāṇi śataśo’tha sahasraśa iti netratrayāya vauṣaṭ।
nānāvidhāni divyāni nānāvarṇākṛtīni ceti astrāya phaṭ।
॥śrīkṛṣṇaprītyarthe pāṭhe viniyogaḥ॥

The meaning is as follows:

  1. “Nainaṃ chindanti śastrāṇi, nainaṃ dahati pāvaka iti hṛdayāya namaḥ”: Salutations to the heart, which is the abode where weapons cannot pierce and fire cannot burn. It signifies the invincibility and strength of the inner self or soul.
  2. “Na cainaṃ kledayantyāpo, na śoṣayati māruta iti śirase svāhā”: Salutations to the head, which is not wetted by water nor dried by the wind. It symbolizes the eternal and unchanging nature of the soul.
  3. “Acchedyo’yamadāhyo’yamakledyo’śoṣya eva ceti śikhāyai vaṣaṭ”: The “śikhā” refers to the tuft of hair on top of the head. It is said that the soul is indestructible, unburnable, unmoistenable, and undryable. “Vaṣaṭ” is a Vedic mantra used to sanctify the chant. This verse further emphasizes the immortality and imperishable nature of the soul.
  4. “Nityaḥ sarvagataḥ sthāṇuracalo’yaṃ sanātana iti kavacāya hum”: The soul is eternal, omnipresent, immovable, and imperishable. It is like an unchanging armor or shield that protects the individual.
  5. “Paśya me pārtha rūpāṇi śataśo’tha sahasraśa iti netratrayāya vauṣaṭ”: The eyes are invoked and saluted here. It means, “Behold, O Arjuna, my countless divine forms with hundreds and thousands of eyes.” This indicates the divine vision that allows one to perceive the vastness and diversity of the divine presence.
  6. “Nānāvidhāni divyāni nānāvarṇākṛtīni ceti astrāya phaṭ”: Salutations to the astras (celestial weapons) of various divine forms and diverse colors. This verse acknowledges the multiple divine powers and forms that exist.
  7. Finally, the phrase “śrīkṛṣṇaprītyarthe pāṭhe viniyogaḥ” means that these verses are recited with the purpose of pleasing Lord Krishna.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5 Verse 1: What is the best path of life?

Bhagavad Gita: Verse 5.1

अर्जुन उवाच ।
संन्यासं कर्मणां कृष्ण पुनर्योगं च शंससि ।
यच्छ्रेय एतयोरेकं तन्मे ब्रूहि सुनिश्चितम् ॥ ५-१॥

 


arjuna uvāca
saṃnyāsaṃ karmaṇāṃ kṛṣṇa punaryogaṃ ca śaṃsasi
yacchreya etayorekaṃ tanme brūhi suniścitam

 


Meaning:

Arjuna said: O Krishna, tell me which one is the best way to fulfill the purpose of  life? Renunciation or the service to the humanity with the devotion to the supreme Lord Vishnu?  You praise both, tell me conclusively that which is the better of the two.

 


 

arjuna uvāca = Arjuna said; saṃnyāsaṃ = renunciation; karmaṇāṃ = of all activities; kṛṣṇa = O Krishna; punaḥ = again; yogaṃ = devotional service; ca = also; śaṃsasi = You are praising; yat = which; śreyaḥ = is more beneficial; etayoḥ = of these two; ekaṃ = one; tat = that; me = unto me; brūhi = please tell; suniścitaṃ = definitely.;

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5 Verse 1

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5: Summary of the 29 Verses

In this chapter, there are 29 verses. Arjuna asks Krishna whether path of renunciation or the path of selfless service to the humanity (karma yoga) is the better way for self realization. Krishna replied that both paths are fine, but that the karma yoga road is more direct. If practiced deeply, both the road of renunciation and the path of action lead to the Self-realization.

Devotion to Lord Vishnu Path of Karma Yoga

Devotion to Lord Vishnu Path of Karma Yoga

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Bhagavad Gita in the Words of His Holiness Sri Amit Ray

“The 72 Slokas of Bhagavad Gita is the Gold mine for Human Evolution. If you want to evolve, just meditate on any one of them day in and day out. You will reach the destination.” – Sri Amit Ray

The Bhagavad Gita contains 18 chapters and 700 verses. You may not have time to focus on all these verses. His Holiness Saint Sri Amit Ray always asked us to focus on the explicit and implicit meaning of the 7 key slokas of Bhagavad Gita for bringing peace, stability and perfections in life.

His Holiness Saint Sri Amit Ray is a great spiritual master. He is famous for his contribution in peace, compassion and deep spirituality.

Saint Sri Amit Ray always teaches the 21 core spiritual principles and the practices of Bhagavad Gita to solve the complex situations of life. Soul-force is the key source of his spiritual wisdom and power and that Soul-force he obtained from Bhagavad Gita. He has awaken the soul-force within himself and within many of his fellow-humans.

“Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the power of wisdom of the Eternal Self.  When you speak and act with a peaceful mind, happiness will be like an inseparable shadow.” – His Holiness Saint Sri Amit Ray

Peaceful Positive Mind Bhagavad Gita Sri Amit Ray Quotes

However, he stressed, as he always does, that the Bhagavad Gita values and the teachings are more important than temples and the statues. His Holiness remarked that both the yoga teachers and the students must understand the seven eternal values and the 21 principles of the Bhagavad Gita.

He said, “Worldly, material development can give you temporary stability, but to get lastingly happiness you need to develop an emotionally stable mind. You need calm mind and mindful virtues actions to glorify your life in this world and beyond.”  – His Holiness Saint Sri Amit Ray

“A disciplined, emotionally stable mind is a true gem. When doubts haunt you or when you are disappointed by the external world, look within – there is always a consistent, serene, and caring voice to support you, inspire you and show you the directions.” – His Holiness Saint Sri Amit Ray

Power of Disciplined and Stable Mind Bhagavad Gita Sri Amit Ray Quotes

His Holiness explained that, “The purpose of all religious is to help people become better people and to live in harmony with one another. This harmony is the biggest  treasure of humanity.” – His Holiness Saint Sri Amit Ray

His Holiness teaches that, “Many people misunderstand the “fruits of actions” concepts of the Bhagavad Gita. Let, the fruits of your actions are not for your enjoyment. To perform actions is only for the betterment of the world. It is an integral part of human evolution. Taking virtues actions is your duty as a better human being. Hence, don’t get upset by the temporary setbacks and don’t be overexcited by positive results. Always maintain the calmness of your mind, if you want to reach the highest.” – His Holiness Saint Sri Amit Ray

His Holiness reminded us, “Know The Self and be Free – Atmanam vidhi. Know the knower within and be the enjoyer of the three worlds. You are the creator of your own world. ” – His Holiness Saint Sri Amit Ray

In this spirit, His Holiness Sri Amit Ray, suggested us that it is more effective to understand and take refuge in the 7 core teachings of Bhagavad Gita. If you understand what they are, faith and liberation will come. Faith in your heart, supported by the purified reasons of your head  will lead you to liberation.

Bhagavad Gita in the Words of Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi always tried to stick to the Truth as he knew and to apply the knowledge of the Truth to everyday life. He tried to apply the spiritual principles to the practical situations. Bhagavad Gita  helped him to do it in a scientific spirit. Sticking to the truth means Satyagraha.

Mahatma Gandhi  was a humble seeker of Truth. Soul-force was the source of his power and that Soul-force he obtained from Bhagavad Gita. He has awaken the soul-force within himself and within his fellowmen. Bhagavad Gita inspired him for the transformation of the individual and transformation of the society.

“The Bhagavad-Gita calls on humanity to dedicate body, mind and soul to pure duty and not to become mental voluptuaries at the mercy of random desires and undisciplined impulses.” – Mahatma Gandhi

“The Bhagavadgita is a gospel of non-co-operation between the forces of darkness and those of light. “ – Mahatma Gandhi

“When doubts haunt me, when disappointments stare me in the face, and I see not one ray of hope on the horizon, I turn to Bhagavad-Gita and find a verse to comfort me; and I immediately begin to smile in the midst of overwhelming sorrow. My life has been full of external tragedies and if they have not left any visible or invisible effect on me, I owe it to the teaching of the Bhagavad Gita.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Bhagavad Gita and Mahatma Gandhi

Bhagavad-Gita Chapter-18: Moksha–Sanyasa yoga

This chapter contains 78 verses. In this chapter, the conclusions of previous seventeen chapters are summed up. Krishna asks Arjuna to abandon all forms of dharma and simply surrender unto him and describes this as the ultimate perfection of life.

Krishna_Universel_Self

Here, Krishna explains the meaning of renunciation and the effects of the modes of nature on human consciousness and activity. He explains the realization of Universal Self , the glories of the Bhagavad Gita, and the ultimate conclusion of the Gita: the highest path of religion is absolute, unconditional loving service unto Lord Krishna.

Summary of the Chapter 18:

Arjuna wanted to know  the true meaning of renunciation (sannyasa) and detachment (tyaga) as well as the difference between them.  The Supreme Lord said, To give up the results of all activities is called renunciation.  There are three kinds of detachment (tyaga) based on the three gunaas. The foremost is sattvic tyaaga where the individual performs his duty and gives up attachment to the reward.   Finally, Lord Krishna said, “Giving up all karmas, take refuge in Me alone. I will release you from all karma; do not grieve”.

Verses of the Chapter 18 of Bhagavad Gita are as follows:

Chapter 18, Verse 1

Arjuna said, O mighty-armed one, I wish to understand the purpose of renunciation [ty?ga] and of the renounced order of life [sanny?sa], O killer of the Ke?? demon, H???ke?a.

Chapter 18, Verse 2

The Supreme Lord said, To give up the results of all activities is called renunciation [ty?ga] by the wise. And that state is called the renounced order of life [sanny?sa] by great learned men.

Chapter 18, Verse 3

Some learned men declare that all kinds of fruitive activities should be given up, but there are yet other sages who maintain that acts of sacrifice, charity and penance should never be abandoned.

Chapter 18, Verse 4

O best of the Bharatas, hear from Me now about renunciation. O tiger among men, there are three kinds of renunciation declared in the scriptures.

Chapter 18, Verse 5

Acts of sacrifice, charity and penance are not to be given up but should be performed. Indeed, sacrifice, charity and penance purify even the great souls.

Chapter 18, Verse 6

All these activities should be performed without any expectation of result. They should be performed as a matter of duty, O son of Pitha. That is My final opinion.

Chapter 18, Verse 7

Prescribed duties should never be renounced. If, by illusion, one gives up his prescribed duties, such renunciation is said to be in the mode of ignorance.

Chapter 18, Verse 8

Anyone who gives up prescribed duties as troublesome, or out of fear, is said to be in the mode of passion. Such action never leads to the elevation of renunciation.

Chapter 18, Verse 9

But he who performs his prescribed duty only because it ought to be done, and renounces all attachment to the fruit-his renunciation is of the nature of goodness, O Arjuna.

Chapter 18, Verse 10

Those who are situated in the mode of goodness, who neither hate inauspicious work nor are attached to auspicious work, have no doubts about work.

Chapter 18, Verse 11

It is indeed impossible for an embodied being to give up all activities. Therefore it is said that he who renounces the fruits of action is one who has truly renounced.

Chapter 18, Verse 12

For one who is not renounced, the threefold fruits of action-desirable, undesirable and mixed-accrue after death. But those who are in the renounced order of life have no such results to suffer or enjoy.

Chapter 18, Verse 13-14

O mighty-armed Arjuna, learn from Me of the five factors which bring about the accomplishment of all action. These are declared in s??khya philosophy to be the place of action, the performer, the senses, the endeavor, and ultimately the Supersoul.

Chapter 18, Verse 15

Whatever right or wrong action a man performs by body, mind or speech is caused by these five factors.

Chapter 18, Verse 16

Therefore one who thinks himself the only doer, not considering the five factors, is certainly not very intelligent and cannot see things as they are.

Chapter 18, Verse 17

One who is not motivated by false ego, whose intelligence is not entangled, though he kills men in this world, is not the slayer. Nor is he bound by his actions.

Chapter 18, Verse 18

Knowledge, the object of knowledge and the knower are the three factors which motivate action; the senses, the work and the doer comprise the threefold basis of action.

Chapter 18, Verse 19

In accordance with the three modes of material nature, there are three kinds of knowledge, action, and performers of action. Listen as I describe them.

Chapter 18, Verse 20

That knowledge by which one undivided spiritual nature is seen in all existences, undivided in the divided, is knowledge in the mode of goodness.

Chapter 18, Verse 21

That knowledge by which a different type of living entity is seen to be dwelling in different bodies is knowledge in the mode of passion.

Chapter 18, Verse 22

And that knowledge by which one is attached to one kind of work as the all in all, without knowledge of the truth, and which is very meager, is said to be in the mode of darkness.

Chapter 18, Verse 23

As for actions, that action in accordance with duty, which is performed without attachment, without love or hate, by one who has renounced fruitive results, is called action in the mode of goodness.

Chapter 18, Verse 24

But action performed with great effort by one seeking to gratify his desires, and which is enacted from a sense of false ego, is called action in the mode of passion.

Chapter 18, Verse 25

And that action performed in ignorance and delusion without consideration of future bondage or consequences, which inflicts injury and is impractical, is said to be action in the mode of ignorance.

Chapter 18, Verse 26

The worker who is free from all material attachments and false ego, who is enthusiastic and resolute and who is indifferent to success or failure, is a worker in the mode of goodness.

Chapter 18, Verse 27

But that worker who is attached to the fruits of his labor and who passionately wants to enjoy them, who is greedy, envious and impure and moved by happiness and distress, is a worker in the mode of passion.

Chapter 18, Verse 28

And that worker who is always engaged in work against the injunction of the scripture, who is materialistic, obstinate, cheating and expert in insulting others, who is lazy, always morose and procrastinating, is a worker in the mode of ignorance.

Chapter 18, Verse 29

Now, O winner of wealth, please listen as I tell you in detail of the three kinds of understanding and determination according to the three modes of nature.

Chapter 18, Verse 30

O son of Pitha, that understanding by which one knows what ought to be done and what ought not to be done, what is to be feared and what is not to be feared, what is binding and what is liberating, that understanding is established in the mode of goodness.

Chapter 18, Verse 31

And that understanding which cannot distinguish between the religious way of life and the irreligious, between action that should be done and action that should not be done, that imperfect understanding, O son of Pitha, is in the mode of passion.

Chapter 18, Verse 32

That understanding which considers irreligion to be religion and religion to be irreligion, under the spell of illusion and darkness, and strives always in the wrong direction, O Partha, is in the mode of ignorance.

Chapter 18, Verse 33

O son of Pitha, that determination which is unbreakable, which is sustained with steadfastness by yoga practice, and thus controls the mind, life, and the acts of the senses, is in the mode of goodness.

Chapter 18, Verse 34

And that determination by which one holds fast to fruitive result in religion, economic development and sense gratification is of the nature of passion, O Arjuna.

Chapter 18, Verse 35

And that determination which cannot go beyond dreaming, fearfulness, lamentation, moroseness, and illusion-such unintelligent determination is in the mode of darkness.

Chapter 18, Verse 36-37

O best of the Bharatas, now please hear from Me about the three kinds of happiness which the conditioned soul enjoys, and by which he sometimes comes to the end of all distress. That which in the beginning may be just like poison but at the end is just like nectar and which awakens one to self-realization is said to be happiness in the mode of goodness.

Chapter 18, Verse 38

That happiness which is derived from contact of the senses with their objects and which appears like nectar at first but poison at the end is said to be of the nature of passion.

Chapter 18, Verse 39

And that happiness which is blind to self-realization, which is delusion from beginning to end and which arises from sleep, laziness and illusion is said to be of the nature of ignorance.

Chapter 18, Verse 40

There is no being existing, either here or among the demigods in the higher planetary systems, which is freed from the three modes of material nature.

Chapter 18, Verse 41

Br?hma?as, k?atriyas, vai?yas and ??dras are distinguished by their qualities of work, O chastiser of the enemy, in accordance with the modes of nature.

Chapter 18, Verse 42

Peacefulness, self-control, austerity, purity, tolerance, honesty, wisdom, knowledge, and religiousness-these are the qualities by which the br?hma?as work.

Chapter 18, Verse 43

Heroism, power, determination, resourcefulness, courage in battle, generosity, and leadership are the qualities of work for the k?atriyas.

Chapter 18, Verse 44

Farming, cattle raising and business are the qualities of work for the vai?yas, and for the ??dras there is labor and service to others.

Chapter 18, Verse 45

By following his qualities of work, every man can become perfect. Now please hear from Me how this can be done.

Chapter 18, Verse 46

By worship of the Lord, who is the source of all beings and who is all-pervading, man can, in the performance of his own duty, attain perfection.

Chapter 18, Verse 47

It is better to engage in one’s own occupation, even though one may perform it imperfectly, than to accept another’s occupation and perform it perfectly. Prescribed duties, according to one’s nature, are never affected by sinful reactions.

Chapter 18, Verse 48

Every endeavor is covered by some sort of fault, just as fire is covered by smoke. Therefore one should not give up the work which is born of his nature, O son of Kunti, even if such work is full of fault.

Chapter 18, Verse 49

One can obtain the results of renunciation simply by self-control and by becoming unattached to material things and disregarding material enjoyments. That is the highest perfectional stage of renunciation.

Chapter 18, Verse 50

O son of Kunti, learn from Me in brief how one can attain to the supreme perfectional stage, Brahman, by acting in the way which I shall now summarize.

Chapter 18, Verse 51-53

Being purified by his intelligence and controlling the mind with determination, giving up the objects of sense gratification, being freed from attachment and hatred, one who lives in a secluded place, who eats little and who controls the body and the tongue, and is always in trance and is detached, who is without false ego, false strength, false pride, lust, anger, and who does not accept material things, such a person is certainly elevated to the position of self-realization.

Chapter 18, Verse 54

One who is thus transcendentally situated at once realizes the Supreme Brahman. He never laments nor desires to have anything; he is equally disposed to every living entity. In that state he attains pure devotional service unto Me.

Chapter 18, Verse 55

One can understand the Supreme Personality as He is only by devotional service. And when one is in full consciousness of the Supreme Lord by such devotion, he can enter into the kingdom of God.

Chapter 18, Verse 56

Though engaged in all kinds of activities, My devotee, under My protection, reaches the eternal and imperishable abode by My grace.

Chapter 18, Verse 57

In all activities just depend upon Me and work always under My protection. In such devotional service, be fully conscious of Me.

Chapter 18, Verse 58

If you become conscious of Me, you will pass over all the obstacles of conditional life by My grace. If, however, you do not work in such consciousness but act through false ego, not hearing Me, you will be lost.

Chapter 18, Verse 59

If you do not act according to My direction and do not fight, then you will be falsely directed. By your nature, you will have to be engaged in warfare.

Chapter 18, Verse 60

Under illusion you are now declining to act according to My direction. But, compelled by your own nature, you will act all the same, O son of Kunti.

Chapter 18, Verse 61

The Supreme Lord is situated in everyone’s heart, O Arjuna, and is directing the wanderings of all living entities, who are seated as on a machine, made of the material energy.

Chapter 18, Verse 62

O scion of Bharata, surrender unto Him utterly. By His grace you will attain transcendental peace and the supreme and eternal abode.

Chapter 18, Verse 63

Thus I have explained to you the most confidential of all knowledge. Deliberate on this fully, and then do what you wish to do.

Chapter 18, Verse 64

Because you are My very dear friend, I am speaking to you the most confidential part of knowledge. Hear this from Me, for it is for your benefit.

Chapter 18, Verse 65

Always think of Me and become My devotee. Worship Me and offer your homage unto Me. Thus you will come to Me without fail. I promise you this because you are My very dear friend.

Chapter 18, Verse 66

Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reaction. Do not fear.

Chapter 18, Verse 67

This confidential knowledge may not be explained to those who are not austere, or devoted, or engaged in devotional service, nor to one who is envious of Me.

Chapter 18, Verse 68

For one who explains the supreme secret to the devotees, devotional service is guaranteed, and at the end he will come back to Me.

Chapter 18, Verse 69

There is no servant in this world more dear to Me than he, nor will there ever be one more dear.

Chapter 18, Verse 70

And I declare that he who studies this sacred conversation worships Me by his intelligence.

Chapter 18, Verse 71

And one who listens with faith and without envy becomes free from sinful reaction and attains to the planets where the pious dwell.

Chapter 18, Verse 72

O conqueror of wealth, Arjuna, have you heard this attentively with your mind? And are your illusions and ignorance now dispelled?

Chapter 18, Verse 73

Arjuna said, My dear Krishna, O infallible one, my illusion is now gone. I have regained my memory by Your mercy, and I am now firm and free from doubt and am prepared to act according to Your instructions.

Chapter 18, Verse 74

Sa?jaya said: Thus have I heard the conversation of two great souls, Krishna and Arjuna. And so wonderful is that message that my hair is standing on end.

Chapter 18, Verse 75

By the mercy of Vy?sa, I have heard these most confidential talks directly from the master of all mysticism, Krishna, who was speaking personally to Arjuna.

Chapter 18, Verse 76

O King, as I repeatedly recall this wondrous and holy dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, I take pleasure, being thrilled at every moment.

Chapter 18, Verse 77

O King, when I remember the wonderful form of Lord Krishna, I am struck with even greater wonder, and I rejoice again and again.

Chapter 18, Verse 78

Wherever there is Krishna, the master of all mystics, and wherever there is Arjuna, the supreme archer, there will also certainly be opulence, victory, extraordinary power, and morality. That is my opinion.

Bhagavad-Gita Chapter-16: Daivasura–Sampad–Vibhaga yoga

This chapter contains 24 verses. Krishna identifies the human traits of the divine and the demonic natures. He counsels that to attain the supreme destination one must give up lust, anger, greed, and discern between right and wrong action by discernment through Buddhi and evidence from the scriptures.

Bhagavad-Gita Chapter-15: Purusottama yoga

This chapter contains 20 verses. Krishna identifies the transcendental characteristics of God such as, omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. Krishna also describes a symbolic tree (representing material existence), which has its roots in the heavens and its foliage on earth. Krishna explains that this tree should be felled with the “axe of detachment”, after which one can go beyond to his supreme abode.