What the three endings of Krishna’s message tell us about Krishna
Let’s consider three possible endings of Krishna’s message to Arjuna. Analytical ending (18.63): Though Krishna speaks nine more verses after this verse, this verse sounds [...]
Gita 18.60 explained
Link to purport by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada Transcript of Bhakti-Shastri class on this verse by Chaitanya Charan Bg 18.60 svabhāva-jena kaunteya nibaddhaḥ [...]
What Krishna’s analysis of determination in the three modes means for Arjuna
While guiding Arjuna to act wisely (18.19-40), Krishna analyzes various elements of action in succession. One such element is determination (18.33-35), which essentially refers to [...]
What Krishna’s assurance about bhakti-yoga means for Arjuna
Toward the end of the Bhagavad-gita, Krishna promises Arjuna of protection if he becomes devotionally conscious (18.58). What does this promise signify? To understand, let’s [...]
How working with devotion prevents entanglement
In the Bhagavad-gita, Krishna addresses Arjuna’s concern: Won’t work entangle me in the world? After outlining various processes for spiritual growth, Krishna recommends bhakti-yoga, or [...]
Why we may misunderstand Krishna’s Gita message — and how the Mahabharata can help
At first glance, the Bhagavad-gita might seem like a philosophical justification for war; Krishna speaks when Arjuna refuses to fight (02.09). Because our modern psyche [...]
Gita 18.47 explained
Link to purport by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada Transcript of Bhakti-Shastri class on this verse by Chaitanya Charan Then the question comes there [...]
Gita 18.43 explained
Link to purport by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada Transcript of Bhakti-Shastri class on this verse by Chaitanya Charan We are discussing how Karma [...]
Gita 16.21 explained
Link to purport by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada Transcript of Bhakti-Shastri class on this verse by Chaitanya Charan So now Krishna will tell [...]
How Krishna’s analysis of intelligence in the three modes matters for Arjuna
To help Arjuna choose wisely, Krishna analyzes in terms of the three modes the various elements of decision-making, including the intelligence (18.30-32). How is intelligence [...]
How Krishna’s analysis of knowledge in the three modes matters for Arjuna
Krishna’s discussion with Arjuna was meant to help him choose wisely. What factors could aid him in choosing wisely? A key factor is knowledge, wherein [...]
Isn’t life too complex to have a manual?
Sometimes, the Bhagavad-gita is commended as the manual for living. This raises questions among thoughtful people, “Isn’t life way too complex to ever have a [...]
Gita 06.35 explained
Link to purport by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada Transcript of Bhakti-Shastri class on this verse by Chaitanya 33-37: Dealing with the mind, the [...]
We are bound to act according to our nature — what does this mean?
Does Krishna’s statement (18.60) that we are bound to act according to our nature leave any scope for free will? If it didn’t, why would [...]
Why Krishna urges Arjuna to stick to his natural duty
In the Bhagavad-gita, Krishna tells Arjuna twice (03.35 & 18.47) that it is far better to act according to one’s own nature than according to [...]
How to focus the mind
We live in an age of unprecedented distraction. When our mind is being so fiercely targeted, how can we focus it? Here are two time-tested [...]
Gita 08.05 explained
Link to purport by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada Transcript of Bhakti-Shastri class on this verse by Chaitanya Charan Now Sri Krishna is answering [...]
Gita 15.18 explained
Link to purport by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada Transcript of Bhakti-Shastri class on this verse by Chaitanya Charan Then after that Krishna says [...]
How detachment protects us from negativity
Suppose we are walking on a narrow path that slopes unpredictably and has ditches on both sides. We could walk much more steadily if the [...]
How Krishna prepares Arjuna for his difficult duty
When we have to do something difficult, it’s helpful if we are prepared for it. Suppose we have to lift a heavy suitcase, a [...]
Why Krishna states contrasting brahmana and kshatriya virtues in successive verses
When Krishna describes the virtues and duties of various social classes in the Bhagavad-gita (18.41-44), he mentions a specific virtue that characterizes brahmanas: forgiving (18.42), [...]