From the specific to the universal (Why the Gita’s first chapter matters 3)
From the specific to the universal - We learn best by an expert combination of the specific and the universal. Specifics catch our attention as [...]
When our inner map fails (Why the Gita’s first chapter matters 2)
When our inner map fails - Suppose we are driving on an important journey using a digital map, but suddenly our map stops working. That [...]
Chatur-Shloki Summarized in terms of reciprocation (Chatur-Shloki Gita analysis 7)
Chatur-Shloki Summarized in terms of reciprocation - If we read the Bhagavad-gita’s Chatur-shloki (its four-verse summary:10.08-11), it becomes evident that its essential theme is bhakti-yoga. [...]
Taking responsibility to help others choose wisely (Balancing independence and guidance series 7)
Taking responsibility to help others choose wisely - After Krishna concludes the Bhagavad-gita’s message, he asks Arjuna a two-part question: Has he heard attentively? Have [...]
Gita 02.08 – Explanation from Bhakti Shastri Class
BG 2.8 na hi prapasyami mamapanudyad yac chokam ucchoshanam indriyanam avapya bhumav asapatnam riddham rajyam suranam api cadhipatyam SYNONYMS na -- do not; hi [...]
Does the Gita’s conclusion contain a self-contradiction? (Balancing independence and guidance series 5)
Does the Gita’s conclusion contain a self-contradiction? - When nearing the end of the Bhagavad-gita (18.63), Krishna shows respect for Arjuna’s independence by stating: “Deliberate [...]
Gita 03.35 explained
Bg 3.35 śreyān sva-dharmo viguṇaḥ para-dharmāt sv-anuṣṭhitāt sva-dharme nidhanaṁ śreyaḥ para-dharmo bhayāvahaḥ Word for word: śreyān — far better; sva-dharmaḥ — one’s prescribed duties; viguṇaḥ [...]
Why we may provide guidance without respecting independence (Balancing independence and guidance series 2)
Why we may provide guidance without respecting independence - Whenever we offer guidance, we act based on our implicit conceptions about what guidance is meant [...]
Why both independence and guidance matter (Balancing independence and guidance series 1)
Why both independence and guidance matter - When we are in relationships that involve instructing and inspiring others such as parenting or coaching, one of [...]