Bhagavad Gita - Fingerprint! [Hardcover]

The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to simply as the Gita, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. It takes the form of a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer.

Gist of the Bhagavad Gita:

Context:
On the battlefield of Kurukshetra, Arjuna is overwhelmed with moral confusion and despair at the thought of fighting his own family, teachers, and friends in war. He puts down his bow and refuses to fight.

Krishna’s Teachings:
Krishna responds with a profound spiritual discourse that covers several key themes:

Key Themes:

1. Dharma (Duty):
   One must perform their prescribed duty without attachment to success or failure. Arjuna, as a warrior, has a duty (dharma) to fight for justice.

2. Karma Yoga (Path of Action):
   Act selflessly without desire for the fruits of action. Action done in this spirit leads to spiritual liberation.

3. Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge):
   True knowledge is understanding the difference between the eternal soul (Atman) and the temporary body.

4. Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion):
   Devotion and surrender to God (Krishna) lead to ultimate liberation (moksha). This is presented as the highest and most accessible path.

5. The Eternal Self (Atman):
   The soul is eternal and indestructible. Death is merely a transition.

6. Detachment and Equanimity:
   Maintain mental balance in success and failure, gain and loss.

7. Liberation (Moksha):
   The goal of life is to attain union with the divine and be free from the cycle of birth and death.

Core Message:

"Do your duty, surrender the results to God, and seek liberation through selfless action, knowledge, and devotion."

The Gita blends philosophy, ethics, and spirituality into a practical guide for living a purposeful and balanced life.