bhagavad gita

[tiki_god7]

so I just started reading the bhagavad gita and am wondering is it more of a history lesson or actually something that will benefit me on my way as I have just started reading it (only into the second chapter) so as of right now it seems more of a history lesson then a guide....what do you think?

[BlackBillBlake]

so I just started reading the bhagavad gita and am wondering is it more of a history lesson or actually something that will benefit me on my way as I have just started reading it (only into the second chapter) so as of right now it seems more of a history lesson then a guide....what do you think?
I think you should definitely read on! The first couple of chapters really just set the scene of the Battle of Kurukshetra. Sri Krishna'a teachings are gradually presented to Arjuna as the book progresses. It is one of the most invaluable guides to spirituality and yoga that exists.
But if you don't mind my asking, which translation are you reading? They do vary, some are better than others.
IMHO the best ones, so far as I've read, are Srila Prabhupada's, Paramhansa Yogananda, Swami Prabhavananda, and last but not least, Sri Aurobindo.
Srila Prbhupadas Bhagavad Gita as it is can be found at

http://www.asitis.com/gallery/


Om Shanti!

[Bhaskar]

The first chapter is just to set the scene of Arjunas dilemma. The second chapter onwads we find the highest philosophy being propounded by Sri Krishna.

The bets commenatr I have read is by Swami Chinmayananda. Sri Aurobindos explanations were also wonderful.

[Hari]

Think of the gita as a great (perfect) summary of all the vedas, and upanishads, and all books of wisdom put together, since it is the Supreme lord himslef who first taught the sun-god
this science, then throught the ages it has been passed on from guru to disciple.

Hearing it again fresh from the lips of Krishna , Arjuna is brought back to the perfect understanding of the self, and its relationship with the Supreme absolute.

[GanjaPrince]

'And when he sees me in all and sees all in me,
Then I never leave him and he never leaves me.
And he, who in this oneness of love
Loves me in whatever he sees,
Wherever this man may live,
In truth, he lives in me...'

Bhagavad Gita, VI:30,31





the 'me' in this passage, refers to God, the perfect pure energy, called Krishna in this beautiful gift of love from the great sages of the past. :)

hare krishna!

[BlackBillBlake]

The first chapter is just to set the scene of Arjunas dilemma. The second chapter onwads we find the highest philosophy being propounded by Sri Krishna.

The bets commenatr I have read is by Swami Chinmayananda. Sri Aurobindos explanations were also wonderful.
Both of these are very good versions. However, Sri Aurobindo's translation, commentary, and his 'Essays on the Gita' are quite advanced - for someone with little knowledge of the basics of yoga and hindu philosophy. Hence my recommendation to start with a more simple version.

Love.