Bhagavad Gita Life Lessons: Timeless Wisdom for Modern Living
The Bhagavad Gita, an eternal spiritual manual, continues to inspire millions with its profound insights into how to live a purposeful life. Its teachings transcend time, offering solutions to the modern world challenges we face.
The Bhagavad Gita was first written by Ved Vyas and is often referred to as the Gitopnishad because it contains essential teachings from the Vedas. In His commentary of The Holy Scripture, Shree Swami Mukundananda beautifully explains at least two main purposes that we humbly attempt to paraphrase with our limited worldly understanding:
- To Teach Brahma Vidya (The Knowledge of the Absolute Truth). The Bhagavad Gita explains that there is one ultimate truth. It provides seekers with the knowledge of how to realize this Absolute Truth from which all other truths have emanated. As the Vedas state, knowledge of the Absolute Truth (i.e., Brahma Vidya) leads to understanding everything in the universe. This knowledge solves not only immediate problems but also removes the root cause of ignorance, offering deep enlightenment.
- To Teach the Practice of Yog (The Union of the Human Mind with God). The Bhagavad Gita not only explains philosophical concepts but also offers practical advice on how to apply divine knowledge in daily life. These practices are called Yog and include different paths like Karm Yog (i.e., the path of devotion in actions), Jnana Yog (i.e., the path of knowledge of God with devotional sentiments), and Bhakti Yog (i.e., the path of pure and unadulterated devotion). The Scripture shows how spirituality can be practiced in every aspect of life, not just as an afterlife goal.
The Setting of the Bhagavad Gita
The Bhagavad Gita is set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, just before the great war of the Mahabharat. On one side were the Pandavas—five brothers who were good and virtuous. On the other were the Kauravas, their cousins, who were cruel and unjust. As the battle was about to begin, Arjun became filled with doubt and confusion. He was unsure about combatting his respected elders, like his grandfather Bheeshma and Guru Dronacharya. In his moral confusion, Arjun turned to Shree Krishna for guidance, and the Lord began to teach him the wisdom needed to navigate the most challenging experience of life.
This is the moment when Shree Krishna delivers the divine teachings that help Arjun understand his duty and the deeper truths of life. For the purpose of this blog, the divine knowledge is encapsulated into five key verses that impart a valuable life lesson to all of us in this modern-day context.
1. Focus on Your Duties, Not the Results. Shree Krishna teaches us to stay committed to our responsibilities without being overly attached to outcomes. This wisdom is especially relevant in a results-driven world where stress often stems from focusing solely on achievements. By shifting our attention to effort and the present moment, we can alleviate anxiety and foster a sense of purpose.
कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन |
मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि || 47 ||
karmany-evadhikaras te ma phaleshu kadachana
ma karma-phala-hetur bhur ma te sango ’stvakarmani
You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction. (BG 2.47)
Modern-Day Application: Whether in one’s personal life or the workplace, we must focus on what we can control—our actions, preparation, and mindset. We must learn to let go of the worry about the outcomes of our actions. This will allow us to find greater satisfaction in the process.
2. Balance in Life is Key to Success. This concept teaches us about the importance of moderation for a balanced life. It emphasizes the importance of discipline in all aspects of living, from eating and recreation to work and rest. Striking the right balance leads to physical and mental well-being.
युक्ताहारविहारस्य युक्तचेष्टस्य कर्मसु |
युक्तस्वप्नावबोधस्य योगो भवति दु:खहा || 17||
yuktahara-viharasya yukta-cheshtasya karmasu
yukta-svapnavabodhasya yogo bhavati duhkha-ha
But those who are temperate in eating and recreation, balanced in work, and regulated in sleep, can mitigate all sorrows by practicing Yog. (BG 6.17)
Modern-Day Application: In today’s competitive and fast-paced world where external as opposed internal growth is valued, burnout is a common problem. We can incorporate regular bhakti breaks, engage in mindful eating, have adequate sleep, and spend time with the family as part of our daily routine to maintain harmony between work and personal life.
3. Control Your Mind to Master Your Life. As Swamiji beautifully explains in His books and lectures, our mind can be our best ally or our worst adversary. Mastering our thoughts and emotions is crucial for personal growth, inner peace, and resilience.
बन्धुरात्मात्मनस्तस्य येनात्मैवात्मना जित: |
अनात्मनस्तु शत्रुत्वे वर्ते तात्मैव शत्रुवत् || 6||
bandhur atmatmanas tasya yenatmaivatmana jitah
anatmanas tu shatrutve vartetatmaiva shatru-vat
For those who have conquered the mind, it is their friend. For those who have failed to do so, the mind works like an enemy. (BG 6.6)
Modern-Day Application: In a world filled with both external and internal distractions, stress seems to be but a step away. In such cases, mindfulness and meditation can help us take charge of our inner world given that we have no control over the external world. We can learn to redirect negative thoughts, cultivate positivity, and focus on constructive action to make the mind our friend.
4. The Power of Selflessness. True peace arises from selflessness. Inspired by a real-life model exemplified by Swamiji, we can learn to serve a higher cause without expecting anything in return. This will enable us to create a deeper sense of fulfillment and harmony in our lives.
श्रेयो हि ज्ञानमभ्यासाज्ज्ञानाद्ध्यानं विशिष्यते |
ध्यानात्कर्मफलत्यागस्त्यागाच्छान्तिरनन्तरम् || 12||
shreyo hi jnanam abhyasaj jnanad dhyanam vishishyate
dhyanat karma-phala-tyagas tyagach chhantir anantaram
Better than mechanical practice is knowledge; better than knowledge is meditation. Better than meditation is renunciation of the fruits of actions, for peace immediately follows such renunciation. (BG 12.12)
Modern-Day Application: In our quest for success, being materially conditioned souls, it is easy to become self-centered. Yet, engaging in acts of kindness, volunteering, or simply helping a colleague or a fellow devotee can enrich our lives and nurture meaningful relationships.
5. Embrace Change as a Part of Life. We all superficially understand that change is inevitable, just like replacing old clothes with new ones. However, internalizing this knowledge and remaining equipoised in the face of challenges is easier said than done. Therefore, we must learn to accept change with grace and resilience, understanding that it is a natural part of life’s journey. Challenges are meant to strengthen from the inside and must be perceived as a blessing of God.
वासांसि जीर्णानि यथा विहाय
नवानि गृह्णाति नरोऽपराणि |
तथा शरीराणि विहाय जीर्णा
न्यन्यानि संयाति नवानि देही || 22||
vasansi jirnani yatha vihaya
navani grihnati naro ’parani
tatha sharirani vihaya jirnanya
nyani sanyati navani dehi
As a person sheds worn-out garments and wears new ones, likewise, at the time of death, the soul casts off its worn-out body and enters a new one. (BG 2.22)
Modern-Day Application: From career shifts to personal challenges, life is full of unpredictable transitions. If we learn to embrace change as an opportunity for growth, then we might be able to let go of the past and make space for new beginnings.
Call to Action 1: Participate in Bhagavad Gita Virtual Classes
JKYog’s Center for Indian Culture and Education (CICE), situated at its Headquarters at the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas, offers several Bhagavad Gita classes for adults. It is an opportunity to learn scriptural knowledge in depth with a focus on its application in our daily lives. Here are some classes offered by CICE:
- Bhagavad Gita Study: Wednesday, 11:00 AM CST, Thursday, 9:00 AM CST, and Saturday, 8:00 AM CST
- Bhagavad Gita Recitation: Saturday, 9:00 PM CST
- Life Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita: Monday to Friday, 9:00 PM CST
To join any of these classes, you can use this direct link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84590458431. For other classes, please check JKYog's free virtual classes.
Call to Action 2: Bhagavad Gita Jayanti at the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas
As we approach Bhagavad Gita Jayanti, the day commemorating the divine dialogue between Krishna and Arjun, communities worldwide come together to celebrate and study this profound text. This occasion offers numerous opportunities for spiritual growth and community engagement. Specifically, at the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas, the Bhagavad Gita Jayanti will include a variety of devotional and enjoyable activities to communicate the depth of Shree Krishna’s divine teachings to the community at large.
- Bhagavad Gita Parayan: Witness the powerful recitation of all 700 verses of the Bhagavad Gita, immersing yourself in its divine wisdom and devotional sentiments.
- Pothi Yatra and Bhagavad Gita Poojan: A sacred Parikrama and Pooja in honor of the Bhagavad Gita, bringing us closer to its teachings and the divine.
- Kids Bhagavad Gita Fest: A fun-filled celebration with shloka chanting, fancy dress, skits, dances, and exciting surprises – a wonderful way for our young ones to engage with the teachings of the Gita!
- Youth Perspectives: Special speeches and insights on specific verses from the Bhagavad Gita, offering a modern take on its timeless lessons.
- Rapid-Fire Q&A for All: Test your knowledge of the Bhagavad Gita’s concepts and characters in an interactive, fun session for all participants.
- Shree Krishna Abhishek & Kirtan: Experience the devotional energy of Shree Krishna’s Abhishek followed by soulful kirtans, honoring His glory.
- Bhagavad Gita Special Satsang: A devotional gathering filled with soulful kirtans, guided meditation, and an inspirational lecture by Swami Mukundananda. These will be followed by Aarti and Mahaprasad.
- Cultural Program: A spectacular showcase of our rich heritage, highlighting the beauty of our traditions and culture.
- Vishnu Sahasranam Chanting: Immersing in the sacred chanting of the thousand names of Lord Vishnu, fostering inner peace and spiritual connection.
These events not only deepen our understanding of the Bhagavad Gita but also strengthen our sense of community and shared spiritual journey.
- Date: December 7, 8, 11, and 14, 2024
- Registration: https://www.radhakrishnatemple.net/bhagavad-gita-jayanti
Join us with your family and friends on this enriching occasion and immerse yourselves in the spiritual energy of the Bhagavad Gita.
Conclusion: The Eternal Relevance of the Bhagavad Gita
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the Bhagavad Gita stands as an unwavering source of guidance and inspiration. Its teachings transcend time and culture, offering practical solutions to our everyday challenges while simultaneously guiding us toward the highest spiritual truths.
By studying the Gita under the guidance of divine personalities like Shree Swami Mukundananda ji, we can unravel its deepest mysteries and apply its wisdom to our lives. Whether we grapple with ethical dilemmas, seek inner peace, or strive for spiritual growth, these sources offer profound guidance to each of us.
Resources
- How to do KARMA YOGA? Swami Mukundananda | Shree Krishna in Bhagavad Gita | Be STRESS FREE
- Work, Life, Spirituality - How to Find Balance? Shree Krishna's ULTIMATE Advice | Swami Mukundananda
- Seeking Selfless Love for God | Bhakti Lectures
- Mukundananda, S. (2022). Bhagavad Gita – The Song of God, Westland Publications: Chennai, India.
- Mukundananda, S. (2022). Golden Rules for Living Your Best Life, Rupa Publications Pvt Ltd: New Delhi, India.
- Mukundananda, S. (2020). The Science of Mind Management, Westland Publications: Chennai, India.
FAQs
1. Why should we focus on our duties, not the results of our actions?
There are several reasons that we should focus only on doing our duty, not the results: (a) The fruits of our actions are not in our hands. We only have control over the effort we make; (b) the fruits of our actions are not for our enjoyment but for God, and (c) if we focus on our duty, it will eradicate the pride of doership.
2. Why is it important to strike a balance in all aspects of life?
Striking a balance in all aspects of life is crucial because it allows for a harmonious existence, preventing extreme attachments to material pursuits while still fulfilling one's duties in the world, ultimately leading to inner peace and spiritual growth. This concept is often referred to as "Dharma" or living righteously and fulfilling one's responsibilities without getting caught up in the results or desires of actions.
3. How can our mind become our best friend or our worst enemy?
Our mind can be our best friend when it is controlled and directed towards positive thoughts and actions, but it can become our worst enemy if left unchecked, succumbing to negative emotions like greed, anger, and lust, essentially acting as a force that pulls us away from our higher self and stuck in lowly worldly desires.
4. What is selfless service?
Selfless service is the practice of performing actions without expecting any reward in return. When the actions of the body are integrated with the mind attached to the divine realm, the same actions become Karm Yog.
5. Why is it important to embrace change?
Embracing change is crucial because it aligns with the inherent nature of the universe, which is constantly fluxing and impermanent. Resisting change is futile as it only creates suffering while accepting it allows one to live by the principle of duty. By focusing on the unchanging, eternal self within, rather than clinging to the temporary external world, we may find inner peace and contentment.