Bhagavad Geeta, summary of Vedic philosophy

I like Sanskrit as a subject of study. I recall in 8^th standard we studied first time, the subject had weightage equivalent of only 25 marks. We were taught ‘Shubhasheet’, verses of wisdom may be around 5 in a period every week. I recall I would have them by heart with meaning, when the period would end. I scored 25/25 in 8^th standard. This is just to provide evidence that I liked that subject. My siblings also were as interested and demonstrated same prowess.

There is another evidence. I took one external exam each year to learn beyond what was taught in the class. That is were I was introduced to Bhagwat Geeta (The Song of God) and could get opportunity to memorize chapters 12 and 15 and understand meanings. I believe the love for this language of God and that of Hindu scriptures was inherited from paternal genes.

Today, I was reflecting on some discussions with a learned relative about the concept and principles of Karm, and realized I have got some introduction to Bhakti, through chapter 12 of Bhagwat Geeta (Bhakti Yog, The Yog of Devotion) and to Gnyan, through exposure to chapter 2 (Sānkhya Yog : The Yog of Analytical Knowledge), over a period of time, but have not had opportunity to understand what does the Geeta say about Karm.

I have followed Swami Mukundanand’s commentary for understanding the God’s words. In the process of looking for knowledge on Karm contained in chapter 3 (Karm Yog, The Yog of Action), I came to get impressive introduction to Bhagwat Geeta.

Swamiji explains that ‘The Prasthān Trayī’, or the three pillars of Vedic thought, comprise the Upanishads, the Brahma Sutras, and the Bhagavad Geeta. These texts are central to understanding the depth and breadth of Vedic philosophy.

The Upanishads form the philosophical core of the Vedas, exploring profound concepts related to the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth, or Brahman. Renowned for their depth and spiritual insight, the Upanishads have been highly regarded by philosophers worldwide. Arthur Schopenhauer, a prominent German philosopher, praised the Upanishads as one of the most elevating philosophies, providing solace throughout his life. Paul Deussen, another German thinker, acknowledged the Upanishads for their clear expression of eternal philosophical truths. However, the complex and abstract nature of these texts makes them challenging for the average person to fully grasp.

To address the complexity of the Upanishads, the Brahma Sutras were composed by Ved Vyas. This text serves as a systematic summary and philosophical conclusion of the Upanishads, earning the name “Vedant,” meaning the culmination of Vedic thought. The Brahma Sutras are highly concise, often leading to various interpretations and making them difficult to understand without deep study.

The Bhagavad Geeta, by contrast, is more accessible and provides a clear and practical summary of Vedic philosophy. Known as the “Song of God,” it presents a dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjun on the battlefield of the Mahabharat. This conversation addresses fundamental questions about duty, righteousness, and the nature of the self, offering guidance that is both spiritual and practical.

Unlike many theories in disciplines such as economics, psychology, or sociology, which are often revised or discarded over time, the wisdom of the Bhagavad Geeta has endured for over fifty centuries. Its teachings have inspired a wide range of thinkers, including Mahatma Gandhi, physicist Robert Oppenheimer, psychologist Carl Jung, and writers like Herman Hesse and Aldous Huxley. The lasting relevance of the Geeta suggests its divine origin, transcending the limitations of human intellect and continuing to provide guidance to seekers of truth across the ages.

I have started reading, understanding and digesting what chapter 3 teaches us. Let me see if I can understand.