The Bhagavad Gita Summary of Key Ideas and Review - Eknath Easwaran

“The Bhagavad Gita” is a Hindu scripture that contains a dialogue between the warrior Arjuna and his charioteer Krishna, who is actually an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu. The conversation takes place on a battlefield, where Arjuna is filled with doubts and questions about the nature of life, death, and his duty as a warrior.

The book has been translated and commented upon by many authors over the centuries, and the translation by Eknath Easwaran is known for its clear and accessible language, while his commentary provides a modern perspective on the ancient wisdom contained in the text.

“The Bhagavad Gita” is a profound and influential work of spiritual literature, and Easwaran’s translation and commentary are a popular and respected interpretation of the text. The book offers insights into Hindu philosophy, ethics, and spirituality and has inspired countless readers over the centuries.

Idea 1: The importance of performing one’s duty (dharma) with detachment from the results of one’s actions, recognizing that outcomes are ultimately beyond our control

Eknath Easwaran elaborates on this concept, emphasizing that recognizing the ultimate lack of control over outcomes is essential to achieving a state of inner peace and spiritual fulfillment.

So, what exactly does it mean to perform one’s duty with detachment from outcomes? It means that while we should strive to do our best in all that we do, we should not become too attached to the results of our actions. We should not base our self-worth or happiness on whether or not things turn out as we expect them to. Instead, we should focus on doing what we know is right and good, leaving the outcome to a higher power or fate.

This can be a challenging concept to grasp, particularly in a society that places so much emphasis on success and achievement.

We are often taught that our worth is tied to our accomplishments and that we should strive to control our circumstances and make things happen. However, the Gita teaches us that this is ultimately a futile pursuit, as there are so many factors outside of our control.

Instead, the Gita encourages us to focus on what we can control: our own thoughts, actions, and intentions. We should do our duty to the best of our ability, but then release attachment to the outcome.

This means that we do not become too attached to success or too discouraged by failure. We recognize that outcomes are ultimately beyond our control and that there is a higher power at work in the universe.

This concept of detachment from outcomes is not about being indifferent or apathetic. Rather, it is about recognizing that there is a bigger picture at play and that our actions are just one small part of a greater whole. By releasing attachment to outcomes, we can experience a sense of freedom and inner peace, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.

So, how can we put this concept into practice in our own lives? One way is to focus on the process rather than the outcome. Instead of obsessing over the end result, we can focus on the journey itself and on doing our best in each moment. We can also cultivate a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to do our duty, recognizing that it is a privilege to be able to contribute to the world in some way.

Idea 2: The idea that the true self (Atman) is eternal and indestructible, and that the ultimate goal of life is to realize one’s identity with the divine (Brahman)

In this part, the author delves into the concept of the true self, or Atman, and its relationship with the divine, or Brahman.

Atman is often described as the individual soul, which is distinct from the body and mind. According to Hindu philosophy, Atman is eternal and indestructible, meaning that it exists beyond the boundaries of time and space. It is the essence of who we are, the core of our being, that transcends all the fluctuations of life.

Brahman, on the other hand, is the ultimate reality that permeates everything in the universe. It is often described as infinite, omnipresent, and absolute. Brahman is not a personal deity but rather the impersonal force that underlies all of creation. The goal of spiritual practice, according to Hinduism, is to realize one’s identity with Brahman, which means recognizing that our individual selves are not separate from the ultimate reality.

Easwaran argues that the realization of our identity with Brahman is not just a matter of intellectual understanding but a transformation of our entire being. It requires us to let go of our attachment to the temporary and ephemeral aspects of life and turn our attention inward, towards the eternal and indestructible nature of Atman. By doing so, we can experience a profound sense of peace, fulfillment, and connectedness with all of existence.

A really important teaching of the Bhagavad Gita is the concept of karma yoga, which is the path of selfless action. By performing our duties without attachment to the results, we can purify our minds and cultivate a sense of detachment from the fluctuations of life. This detachment, in turn, can help us realize our true nature as Atman and ultimately merge with Brahman.

So, in short, Easwaran’s teachings on the true self and the ultimate goal of life are deeply rooted in the ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita. By recognizing the eternal and indestructible nature of Atman and striving to realize our identity with Brahman, we can experience a profound sense of peace and connectedness with all of existence. It is a path that requires dedication and effort, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Idea 3: The notion that all living beings are interconnected and that true wisdom involves seeing beyond the illusion of separation and recognizing the divine in all

This notion that all living beings are interconnected is rooted in the teachings of Hinduism and is a fundamental concept in Eastern philosophy.

The idea of interconnectedness is based on the concept of the unity of all things. Hindus believe that everything in the universe is interconnected and part of the same divine energy. This energy is referred to as Brahman, and it is said to be present in all living beings, including humans, animals, and even plants.

Easwaran explains that true wisdom involves seeing beyond the illusion of separation. This means that we should recognize that the boundaries that we perceive between ourselves and others are only illusions. We are all part of the same divine energy, and there is no separation between us. When we realize this, we can begin to understand the true nature of reality.

Recognizing the divine in all is also an important aspect of this concept. Hindus believe that the divine energy, or Brahman, is present in all living beings. This means that every person, animal, and plant is sacred and deserves to be treated with respect and compassion.

When we recognize the divine in all, we can begin to see the world in a different way. We can see the beauty and interconnectedness of all things, and we can work towards creating a more peaceful and harmonious world.

The Bhagavad Gita teaches that we should strive to live a life of service. By recognizing the divine in all, we can begin to serve others with love and compassion. This can help us transcend our ego and connect with the divine energy that is present in all living beings.

Idea 4: The importance of self-discipline (tapas) and control of the mind and senses as a means of spiritual growth and self-realization

While this idea may seem like a daunting task to rein in the wandering mind and senses, the practice of tapas can help us achieve this goal.

So, what exactly is tapas? It’s a Sanskrit word that can be translated as “discipline” or “austerity.” In the context of spiritual growth, tapas involves voluntarily subjecting oneself to discomfort or hardship in order to strengthen the will and develop self-control. This could mean fasting, waking up early, or abstaining from certain pleasures like alcohol or social media.

Now, you might be thinking, “Why would anyone want to subject themselves to discomfort?” Well, according to Easwaran, tapas can help us break free from the limitations of the ego and connect with our true selves.

By resisting the impulses of the mind and senses, we become more aware of our thoughts and emotions and can begin to transcend them.

However, tapas is not just about gritting your teeth and enduring hardship. It’s also about cultivating a positive attitude and a sense of purpose. When we undertake tapas with the intention of spiritual growth, we can find meaning and fulfillment in even the most difficult tasks.

You can argue that developing self-discipline and control of the mind and senses is easier said than done. But Easwaran offers some practical advice for how to get started. One of his key suggestions is to practice mindfulness, or the ability to focus on the present moment without judgment. By cultivating this skill, we can become more aware of our thoughts and feelings and learn to detach from them.

Another technique Easwaran recommends is the repetition of a mantra or sacred word. By repeating a phrase like “Om” or “peace,” we can anchor our attention and cultivate a sense of inner peace and calm.

To put it in simple words, the practice of tapas is about developing the inner strength and self-awareness necessary for spiritual growth and self-realization. It requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to step outside of our comfort zones.

But with practice, we can learn to control our minds and senses and connect with our true selves. As Easwaran writes, “Through the discipline of tapas, we gain control over the forces that limit us and discover the infinite potential within.”

Idea 5: The idea that devotion (bhakti) to the divine can lead to liberation and that there are many paths to realization, including knowledge (jnana), action (karma), and devotion (bhakti)

Here, Eknath Easwaran explores the concept of liberation through devotion to the divine and how this can be achieved through various paths, including knowledge, action, and devotion. But what does all this really mean?

First, let’s break it down. Liberation refers to the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, which is to be free from the cycle of birth and death and to merge with the divine. Devotion, or bhakti, is seen as one way to achieve this liberation. It involves a deep and loving relationship with a personal aspect of the divine and can involve practices such as chanting, prayer, and meditation.

Easwaran also claims that there are many paths to realization, or the attainment of spiritual enlightenment. These paths include not only devotion but also knowledge (jnana) and action (karma).

Knowledge has to do with how well you understand spiritual truths and the way the world works. This includes studying spiritual texts and teachings, as well as engaging in contemplation and reflection. It can help us overcome ignorance and gain insight into the nature of our true selves and the world around us.

Action, on the other hand, involves performing selfless deeds and living in accordance with spiritual values. This includes practices such as karma yoga, which involves dedicating one’s actions to the divine and performing them without attachment to the results.

Through such actions, we can cultivate virtues such as compassion, kindness, and generosity, which are essential for spiritual growth.

So why does Easwaran emphasize the importance of these different paths? The reason is simple: every individual is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. By recognizing the diversity of human nature and the different ways in which people can connect with the divine, Easwaran encourages us to find the path that resonates most deeply with us.

In other words, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to spirituality. Some may find that devotion is their natural inclination, while others may be drawn to knowledge or action. By recognizing and respecting these differences, we can create a more inclusive and harmonious spiritual community.

To sum it up, Eknath Easwaran’s idea of liberation through devotion and the many paths to realization emphasizes the importance of diversity and individuality in spiritual practice. He also tells us that by finding the path that suits us best, we can cultivate a deep and meaningful connection with the divine and ultimately achieve the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation.

Idea 6: The concept of the gunas, or the three qualities of nature - sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance) - and the idea that one’s actions and state of mind are influenced by these qualities

After reading this book, I can tell you that one of the core concepts of the Gita is the gunas, or the three qualities of nature. According to Eknath Easwaran, understanding the gunas is essential to gaining insight into our actions and state of mind.

So, you may ask, what exactly are the gunas? Sattva, rajas, and tamas are the three gunas that describe the fundamental qualities of nature. Each of these qualities has unique characteristics that influence our thoughts, emotions, and actions.

Sattva is the quality of goodness, purity, and clarity. It is associated with virtues such as compassion, wisdom, and selflessness. Sattva is the state of being in balance and harmony, where our actions are guided by our highest values and ideals.

Rajas, on the other hand, is the quality of passion, desire, and activity. It is associated with qualities such as ambition, restlessness, and competitiveness. Rajas is the state of being driven by our desires and goals, where our actions are guided by our wants and needs.

Tamas is the quality of ignorance, dullness, and inertia. It is associated with qualities such as laziness, apathy, and ignorance. Tamas is the state of being stuck in our habits and patterns, where our actions are guided by our fears and limitations.

These three gunas are present in varying degrees in all of us, and our state of mind is determined by the predominance of one or more of them at any given time. For example, a person who is predominantly sattvic will have a calm and composed state of mind, while a person who is predominantly rajasic will have a restless and agitated state of mind.

Moreover, our actions are also influenced by the gunas. A person who is predominantly sattvic will tend to act in a selfless and compassionate manner, while a person who is predominantly tamasic will tend to act in a selfish and lazy manner.

Therefore, understanding the gunas is essential to gaining insight into our actions and state of mind. By becoming aware of the gunas and their influence on us, we can learn to balance them and cultivate a more sattvic state of mind. This can lead to greater peace, harmony, and fulfillment in our lives.

In essence, the gunas are a very powerful concept for understanding the nature of our thoughts, emotions, and actions. By recognizing the gunas and their influence on us, we can learn to cultivate a more sattvic state of mind and lead a more fulfilling life. As Eknath Easwaran said, “The gunas are the keys to self-understanding and self-transformation.”

Idea 7: The importance of cultivating equanimity in the face of life’s challenges, recognizing that pleasure and pain, success and failure, are all transitory and ultimately illusory

Life is a rollercoaster ride with ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected drops. We are bound to face challenges that can be both exciting and terrifying. In the midst of all this chaos, Eknath Easwaran explains the importance of cultivating equanimity. But what is equanimity? And why is it so important?

Equanimity is the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of life’s challenges. It is a state of mind where one is not swayed by the vicissitudes of life, neither by pleasure nor pain, success nor failure. Instead, one remains centered, grounded, and focused on the task at hand.

According to Easwaran, equanimity is an essential quality that can lead to inner peace and happiness.

Easwaran draws his insights from the Bhagavad Gita, an ancient Hindu scripture that is revered as a spiritual guidebook. In the Gita, Lord Krishna instructs his disciple Arjuna on the art of living a fulfilling life. One of the key teachings of the Gita is the concept of karma yoga, which emphasizes the importance of performing one’s duties without being attached to the results.

This means that we should focus on doing our best but not be attached to the outcome. Whether we succeed or fail, whether we experience pleasure or pain, we should remain equanimous and detached.

This does not mean that we should be indifferent or apathetic to our circumstances. On the contrary, we should be fully engaged and present in the moment, but without being emotionally invested in the outcome.

The reason why equanimity is so important is that it frees us from the tyranny of our emotions. When we are too attached to success or too afraid of failure, we become slaves to our desires and fears. We are constantly buffeted by the winds of change and the ups and downs of life. But when we cultivate equanimity, we become masters of our emotions. We are no longer at the mercy of our desires and fears, but instead, we are able to remain centered and focused.

Easwaran also points out that pleasure and pain, success and failure, are all transitory and ultimately illusory. They are like waves on the surface of the ocean, constantly rising and falling, but the ocean itself remains unchanged. In the same way, our true nature is unchanging and eternal, and it is only our attachment to transient phenomena that causes us to suffer.

Therefore, cultivating equanimity is not only a practical tool for dealing with life’s challenges, but it is also a spiritual practice that can lead us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. It is a way of transcending the limitations of our ego and connecting with our true selves.

So, what can we take away from this? Well, we can learn that Eknath Easwaran’s message of cultivating equanimity is timeless wisdom that can help us navigate the challenges of life with grace and wisdom.

Practice equanimity, free yourself from the bonds of attachment, and experience inner peace and happiness.

Idea 8: The idea that the pursuit of material wealth and pleasure is ultimately unsatisfying and that true happiness and fulfillment can only be found in the realization of the divine

In this part of the book, the author offers a fascinating perspective on the nature of happiness and fulfillment. According to Easwaran, the idea that the pursuit of material wealth and pleasure can lead to lasting happiness is a fallacy. In fact, he suggests that true fulfillment can only be found in the realization of the divine.

The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred Hindu text that is thousands of years old. It tells the story of a warrior named Arjuna, who is faced with a difficult decision in the midst of a great battle. Arjuna is torn between his duty as a warrior and his moral convictions, and he seeks the guidance of his charioteer, Krishna, who is actually an incarnation of God.

The concept of dharma is one of the most important themes of the Bhagavad Gita; it refers to one’s duty or purpose in life. Easwaran suggests that finding one’s dharma is essential to experiencing true happiness and fulfillment.

He argues that when we are living in alignment with our dharma, we are able to tap into a deeper sense of purpose and meaning that transcends our material desires.

Easwaran also suggests that the pursuit of material wealth and pleasure can actually be a hindrance to our spiritual growth. He points out that when we become too focused on accumulating possessions and experiences, we can lose sight of our true priorities and values.

We may find ourselves constantly chasing after the next shiny object or sensation without ever feeling truly satisfied.

In contrast, Easwaran suggests that the realization of the divine can provide a sense of deep and lasting fulfillment. He argues that when we are able to connect with something greater than ourselves, whether it be God, the universe, or some other higher power, we can experience a sense of peace and contentment that transcends our everyday concerns.

And, yeah, the idea of the divine means different things to different people. For some, it may involve a personal relationship with God. For others, it may involve a connection to nature or a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of the universe. Whatever form it takes, Easwaran tells us that the realization of the divine can provide a sense of purpose and meaning that is hard to find in our material pursuits.

Easwaran’s perspective on the nature of happiness and fulfillment is a thought-provoking one. While the pursuit of material wealth and pleasure may be alluring, it is ultimately unsatisfying. Instead, true happiness and fulfillment can only be found in the realization of the divine. Whether through a personal relationship with God, a connection to nature, or some other form of higher power, the pursuit of the divine can provide a sense of purpose and meaning that transcends our everyday concerns.

Idea 9: The importance of the guru, or spiritual teacher, in guiding the student on the path of self-realization

Ok, so first, let’s define the term “guru.” In Sanskrit, the word “guru” means “dispeller of darkness.” Essentially, a guru is a spiritual guide who helps to illuminate the path to enlightenment by imparting wisdom, insight, and guidance.

Easwaran stresses the importance of having a guru in one’s spiritual journey, as a guru can provide invaluable support and guidance to the student. In fact, in the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna himself serves as a guru to his disciple Arjuna, guiding him through the challenges and doubts he faces.

The role of the guru is multifaceted and can include everything from teaching spiritual practices to providing moral support to simply being a role model for the student to emulate. The guru is there to help the student navigate the complexities of the spiritual path and to provide encouragement and guidance along the way.

But why is the guru so important? Easwaran argues that the spiritual path can be a difficult and lonely one, and that having a guru can make all the difference. The guru serves as a constant source of inspiration and motivation, helping the student stay focused on their goals and persevere through obstacles.

Furthermore, the guru is often seen as a conduit for divine wisdom and insight and can help the student access higher states of consciousness and spiritual realization.

Through their guidance, the guru can help the student overcome their limitations and realize their full potential.

We can say that, generally speaking, the relationship between guru and student is one of mutual respect and devotion. The student places their trust in the guru, and in return, the guru provides the guidance and support needed to navigate the spiritual path.

Let’s recap a little bit. Eknath Easwaran’s emphasis on the importance of the guru in the spiritual journey is a key tenet of the Bhagavad Gita and one that has resonated with spiritual seekers throughout the ages. By providing guidance, wisdom, and support, the guru can help the student achieve self-realization and spiritual enlightenment. So if you’re on the spiritual path, consider seeking out a guru to guide you on your journey—you won’t regret it!

Idea 10: The notion that the ultimate reality is beyond the limitations of language, thought, and perception, and that the highest form of knowledge is direct experience of the divine

The highest form of knowledge is the direct experience of the divine. But what does this mean exactly? Let’s break it down.

First, let’s talk about the ultimate reality. Easwaran is referring to what some people might call God, the universe, or the source. It’s the thing that is bigger than us, the thing that everything is connected to. It’s the force that keeps the planets moving and the flowers blooming. Easwaran believes that this ultimate reality is beyond the limitations of language, thought, and perception.

This might sound a bit confusing at first, but think about it this way: Have you ever tried to explain a feeling to someone but couldn’t find the right words? Or have you ever seen something so beautiful that it took your breath away, but you couldn’t fully describe it to someone else?

That’s because language, thought, and perception have their limits. They are tools that we use to try and make sense of the world, but sometimes they fall short. Easwaran believes that the ultimate reality is so vast and all-encompassing that it cannot be fully understood or described using these tools.

So, if language, thought, and perception can’t fully capture the ultimate reality, how can we know anything about it? According to Easwaran, the highest form of knowledge is direct experience of the divine.

This means that, rather than relying on words or thoughts to understand the ultimate reality, we need to have a personal experience of it. This might happen through meditation, prayer, or other spiritual practices.

When we have a direct experience of the divine, we don’t need words to describe it or thoughts to understand it. We just know it. It’s like trying to describe the taste of chocolate to someone who has never tried it before. You can use all the words in the world, but until they taste it for themselves, they won’t really understand. Similarly, until we have a direct experience of the divine, we won’t fully understand it.

How about we simplify this idea a little more? So, Eknath Easwaran believes that the ultimate reality is beyond the limitations of language, thought, and perception. To truly know and understand it, we need to have a direct experience of the divine. So, if you’re interested in exploring the ultimate reality, it might be time to put down the books and start exploring your own inner world through spiritual practices.

Who is the book “The Bhagavad Gita” by Eknath Easwaran recommended for?

The book “The Bhagavad Gita” by Eknath Easwaran is recommended for anyone who is interested in learning about the philosophy and teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, one of the most important and influential texts in Hinduism.

It is also recommended for those who are interested in exploring spirituality and the nature of the ultimate reality.

The book is accessible and easy to read, making it a good choice for those who are new to the subject. Additionally, Easwaran provides commentary and insights throughout the book that help to contextualize and explain the teachings of the Gita, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars of Hinduism and Eastern philosophy.

So, you can say that anyone who is interested in deepening their understanding of spirituality and exploring the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita would benefit from reading this book.

About the author

Eknath Easwaran (1910–1999) was an Indian-American spiritual teacher, author, and translator. He was born in Kerala, India, and earned his degree in English literature before moving to the United States in 1959.

Easwaran founded the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation, which offered instruction in meditation and spiritual practices to people of all backgrounds. He was also a prolific writer, authoring over 30 books on topics such as meditation, mindfulness, and Eastern spirituality.

One of his most famous works is “The Bhagavad Gita”, a translation and commentary on the Hindu text of the same name. Easwaran’s teachings emphasized the importance of spiritual practice, personal growth, and service to others.

He was known for his clear and accessible writing style, which made Eastern philosophy and spirituality more accessible to Western audiences. Easwaran passed away in 1999, but his teachings continue to inspire people around the world.