8.10.2025

One-line summaries of the Bhagavad Gita

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 1. The Yoga of Arjuna's Sorrow


Summary: This opening chapter of the Bhagavad Gita sets the stage for the entire discourse. As Arjuna steps onto the battlefield and sees his kinsmen arrayed for war, he is overcome with deep sorrow and confusion. He contemplates the devastating consequences of the conflict and the lasting repercussions it will have on everyone involved.

Verses 1-11: Duryodhana's Perspective

1.1. Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya what happened on the Kurukshetra battlefield.

1.2. Sanjaya describes Duryodhana approaching Drona after seeing the Pandava army arrayed.

1.3. Duryodhana points out the formations arranged by Drupada’s son.

1.4. He named heroic warriors equal to Arjuna and Bhima.

1.5. Duryodhana lists other outstanding Pandava warriors.

1.6. He continues to identify powerful chariot warriors.

1.7. Duryodhana recognizes and boasts of his army’s strength

1.8. He named key fighters for his side.

1.9 Many other soldiers are willing to sacrifice their lives for him.

1.10. He claims his army is unlimited, while the Pandava army is limited.

1.11. He orders his forces to guard Bhishma well.

Verses 12-19: The sound of battle

1.12. Bhishma roars and blows his conch to encourage the Kauravas.

1.13. The sound of conches, drums, and horns thundered together, creating a tumultuous clamor.

1.14 Krishna and Arjuna blew their conchs from their four white horse-drawn chariots.

1.15. Krishna blew the Panchajanya, Arjuna the Devadatta, and Bhima the Paundram..

1.16 Yudhishthira, Bhima, Nakula, Sahadeva, and others blow their conches.

1.7 The kings of Kasi, Shikhandi, Dhrishtadyumna, Virata, and Satyaki blew theirs.

1.18. Drupada (Drupadi's son) and Abhimanyu blow their conches.

1.19 The combined sounds shook the sky and earth, breaking the Kauravas' hearts

Verses 20-27: Arjuna's Hesitation

1.20. When he saw the sons of Dhritarashtra, Arjuna, who carried Hanuman's emblem on his chariot's flag, picked up his bow and arrow.

1.21. He asks Krishna to place the chariot between the armies.

1.22. He wants to see who has gathered to fight the Kauravas.

1.23. He wishes to see those eager to please Duryodhana in battle.

1.24. Sanjaya said, "Krishna has stationed the chariot between the two armies."

1.25. Arjuna sees his relatives, teachers, and friends on both sides.

1.26. He sees fathers, grandfathers, sons, grandsons, brothers, and well-wishers.

1.27. He saw in both camps in-laws and well-wishers alike.

Verse 28-47: Arjuna's Grief and Despair

1.28. He tells Krishna that his limbs are failing and his mouth is drying.

1.29. His body trembles, his hair stands at the end, and his bow slips.

1.30 His bow slipped from his hand; his skin burned, and he could barely stand.

1.31 He sees no point in killing family members.

1.32. He declares he has no ambition for glory, kingdom, or pleasure.

1.33. For those he desires, they are assembled here to fight.

1.34. He lists relatives, teachers, fathers, sons, grandfathers, and brothers-in-law.

1.35. He declares that he does not want to kill them, not even for the sake of the three worlds.

1.36. Killing Dhritarashtra’s sons will bring no joy, only sinful consequences..

1.37. Killing our kinsmen is wrong; we will find no happiness.

1.38 Blinded by greed, the Kauravas do not see the evil of family destruction.

1.39. Since we know this is a sin, why commit it?

1.40. Family destruction destroys eternal traditions and religions.

1.41. With Adarma's rise, women’s purity declines, causing caste mixing.

1.42 This intermixture sends families and ancestors to hell.

1.43. "The misdeeds of those who destroy family forever ruin community and dharma."

1.44. Those who ruin a family's dharma will spend eternity in hell.

1.45. How strange that greed for royal pleasures leads to killing kin!

1.46. Arjuna said he would rather be killed unarmed than fight.

1.47. Sanjaya said, Arjuna sat distressed, dropping his bow and arrows, overwhelmed by grief

The first chapter, the Yoga of Arjuna's Sorrow in the Upanishad of the divine Bhagavad Gita, concludes with a discussion of the Absolute, the yogic scripture, and the dispute between Arjuna and Shree Krishna.

 

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2. The Yoga of Knowledge

Summary: This second chapter, an overview of the entire Scripture, focuses on understanding your eternal, indestructible self. It stresses steadiness in this knowledge, detachment from outcomes, selfless action, and mastery over personal desires.

Verse 1-10: Arjuna's Despair and Krishna's Encouragement

2.1. Sanjaya tells Dhritarashtra that Krishna, seeing Arjuna overcome with pity, speaks to him.

2.2. Krishna questions Arjuna’s weakness in such a critical moment.

2.3. He urges Arjuna to abandon cowardice and rise to the occasion.

2.4. Arjuna wonders how he can fight revered elders like Bhishma and Drona.

2.5. He said it was better to live by begging than to kill noble teachers.

2.6. Arjuna is confused about duty, unsure whether victory or death is better.

2.7. He surrenders to Krishna, seeking guidance as his disciple.

2.8. Arjuna declares that nothing can remove his sorrow, even with unmatched prosperity.

2.9. Sanjaya narrates that Arjuna, refusing to fight, falls silent.

2.10. Seeing Arjuna's displeasure, Krishna smiles and starts instructing him.

Verses 11-30: The Eternal Nature of the Soul

2.11. He says the wise do not grieve for the living or the dead.

2.12. Krishna tells Arjuna that you, I, and all the kings have always existed and will forever exist.

2.13. Just as the soul moves through childhood, youth, and old age, it transitions into another.

2.14. Sensory experiences bring pain and pleasure; be borne with patience.

2.15. One who remains steadfast in both suffering and pleasure becomes eligible for immortality.

2.16. The unreal has no existence; the real never ceases to exist.

2.17. The indestructible reality pervades all; none can destroy it.

2.18. The perishable body houses the imperishable, eternal soul.

2.19. He who thinks the soul kills or is killed misunderstands its nature.

2.20. The soul is unborn, eternal, unchanging, and indestructible.

2.21. Knowing the soul as indestructible, one should not grieve for any being.

2.22. As one changes worn-out clothes, the soul changes bodies.

2.23. Weapons like fire, water, and wind cannot harm the soul.

2.24. The soul is unbreakable, incombustible, insoluble, and everlasting.

2.25. The soul is invisible, inconceivable, and unchangeable.

2.26. Even if the soul is born and dies, there is no cause for grief.

2.27. Death is certain for the born, and rebirth for the dead.

2.28. Beings are unmanifest at the beginning and end, manifest in the middle.

2.29. Some see the soul as wondrous; others hear of it, but few truly know it.

2.30. The soul is eternal in all bodies; do not grieve for any creature.

Verses 31-38: The Kshatriya's Duty

2.31. As a warrior, Arjuna must fight virtuous conflicts.

2.32. Such battles open the doors to heaven for the Kshatriyas.

2.33. Neglecting this duty will lead to disgrace and sin.

2.34 People will talk about his shame forever, which is harsher than death.

2.35. Brave warriors will think he fled the battle out of fear.

2.36. His enemies will mock him, deeply wounding his honor.

2.37. If he dies, he gains heaven; if he wins, he enjoys earth.

2.38. Be equal in pleasure, pain, gain, loss, victory, and defeat, and act accordingly.

Verses 39-53: Introduction to Karma Yoga (Detached Action)

2.39. Krishna begins teaching us Sankhya Yoga, the wisdom to free us from bonds.

2.40. On this path, no effort is wasted, and no harm comes.

2.41. The resolute mind is focused; the indecisive mind is scattered.

2.42. The unwise delight in flowery Vedic rituals for material gains.

2.43. They seek heavenly pleasures leading to rebirth, not liberation.

2.44. Attachment to pleasure clouds with resolute understanding.

2.45. Transcend by the three gunas and remain steadfast in the Self.

2.46. For the wise, all Vedic purposes are fulfilled as a small pond in a flood.

2.47. You have the right to act, but not to claim the consequences.

2.48. Perform duty with equanimity, abandoning attachment to success or failure.

2.49. Action motivated by selfishness is inferior to wisdom-based yoga.

2.50. Yoga improves action skills and liberates individuals from positive and negative outcomes.

2.51. The wise abandon the fruit of work and attain liberation.

2.52. When your mind is free of deception, Vedic promises will no longer be relevant.

2.53. When your mind is unmoved in meditation, you attain yoga.

Verses 54-72: The Characteristics of a Self-Realized Person (Stitha-Pragya)

 2.54. Arjuna inquires about the traits of a person with steady wisdom.

2.55. Krishna said such a person is free from desires and content with the Self.

2.56. He is unmoved by sorrow, desire, or anger.

2.57. He has no regard for the outcome, favorable or unfavorable.

2.58. Like a tortoise withdraws its limbs, he withdraws his senses from objects.

2.59. Objects leave the abstinent, but desire remains until the realization of the Supreme.

2.60. Even the most intelligent individuals may be overwhelmed by their restless senses.

2.61. Control the senses with devotion to the Supreme, and wisdom will remain steadfast.

2.62. Focusing on sense objects breeds attachment, which leads to desire and anger.

2.63. It is anger that leads to delusion, memory loss, and wisdom destruction.

2.64. Self-disciplined beings, free from attachment and aversion, find peace.

2.65. In peace, all sorrows end, and the intellect becomes steady.

2.66. Without yoga, there is no wisdom or peace, and no happiness.

2.67. The mind that follows the senses kills wisdom, much like the wind pushing a boat.

2.68. Control the senses and keep the mind fixed on the Supreme.

2.69. What is night to others is wakefulness to the wise, and vice versa.

2.70. The Sage remains undisturbed, like the ocean unmoved by rivers flowing into it.

2.71. Peace is achieved when one abandons desires and ego.

2.72. This is the state of Brahman; attaining it, one is free from delusion and reaches liberation.

Thus ends the second chapter, the Yoga of Knowledge, in the Upanishad of the divine Bhagavad Gita, which encompasses the knowledge of the Absolute, the yogic scripture, and the debate between Arjuna and Shree Krishna.


 Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 3. The yoga of action

Summary: This chapter is about Karma Yoga. It explains how desire-driven actions lead to karma and rebirth, the role of the gunas and the senses, and the importance of performing selfless actions and obligatory duties without desire for the fruit of their actions to achieve liberation.

Verses 1-5: The confusion of Arjuna

3.1. Arjuna questions Krishna, asking why he should fight if knowledge is superior to action

3.2. Arjuna, confused, asks Krishna to clarify the path to liberation..

3.3. Krishna explains that there are two paths: the path of knowledge (Sankhya) and the path of action (Yoga).

3.4. The goal of liberation cannot be achieved by avoiding action or giving up work.

3.5. He explains that no one can remain inactive for a moment, as nature forces action.

Verses 6-16: The Importance of Right Action

3.6 The act of pretending renunciation while thinking about sensual goods is hypocritical..

3.7. Selfless action and controlling the senses are true signs of renunciation.

3.8. Perform your duty. For action is better than inaction.

3.9. Actions done as a sacrifice to the divine free one from bondage.

3.10. At creation, the Creator ordained sacrifice for mutual prosperity.

3.11. Nourish the gods through sacrifice, and they will bless you in return.

3.12. The devas, pleased by sacrifices, provide all the necessities, but one who enjoys these gifts without offering them in return is a thief.

3.13. The righteous eat the remnants of the sacrifice and are freed from sin.

3.14. Food comes from rain, rain from sacrifice, and sacrifice from action.

3.15. The imperishable truth is reflected in the Vedas, which are the source of action.

3.16. One who ignores this cosmic cycle lives in vain.

Verse 17-29: The deeds of the enlightened

3.17. An enlightened person finds satisfaction within themselves and has no reason not to perform their duties.

3.18. Such a person has no dependence on others or duties.

3.19. Yet even the wise should act, setting an example for others.

3.20. Only through selfless action were kings like Janaka able to achieve perfection.

3.21. Great leaders set a good example for others to follow.

3.22. Krishna also acts constantly, despite having nothing to gain.

3.23. If he does not execute his actions with care, people will follow him in all respects, and they will not work.

3.24. If Krishna were not to perform His duties, all the world would fall into ruin, and He would be the cause of it.

3.25. A wise person acts without attachment, just as the ignorant acts with it, for the welfare of the world.

3.26. The wise should not disturb the ignorant, but inspire them.

3.27. All activities are motivated by natural characteristics, yet by the deceiving belief, "I am the doer."

3.28. The wise see nature’s forces acting and remain unattached.

3.29. The ignorant act attaches to nature’s qualities; the wise should not disturb them.

Verse 30-35: Krishna's instructions and self-control

3.30. Surrender all actions to the Divine, free from desire and ego.

3.31. A person who faithfully follows Krishna's teachings is free from bondage.

3.32. Those who scorn them are deluded and lost.

3.33. All beings act according to their nature; even the wise cannot resist it.

3.34. Attraction and aversion toward sense objects are natural but should be controlled.

3.35. Better is one's duty, though devoid of quality, than another's duty

Verse 36-43: The Causes of Sin and the Need for Self-Control

3.36. Arjuna asked what force compels a person to sin.

3.37. Krishna said that desire and anger were born out of passion.

3.38. Desire covers wisdom as smoke veils fire or dust dims a mirror.

3.39. Desire is an insatiable enemy that hides knowledge.

3.40. Desire resides in the senses, mind, and intellect, deluding the soul.

3.41. To combat desire and its influences, control the senses.

3.42. The senses are lower than the mind, the mind is lower than the intellect, and the Self is higher.

3.43. Knowing this, one should control the mind and destroy desire through self-realization.

Thus ends the third chapter, known as the Yoga of Action, in the Upanishad of the divine Bhagavad Gita, the scripture of yogic knowledge, and the debate between Arjuna and Lord Krishna.


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 4. Jnana Karma Sanyasa Yoga 

Summary: This chapter explores knowledge, Karma, and renunciation. Knowledge is gained by serving enlightened ones. The information a person receives should not determine their actions. The upholder of Dharma is God. From time to time, He manifests Himself on earth to protect and restore Dharma.

Verses 1-10: The Divine Lineage of Knowledge

4.1. Krishna says that He taught this eternal yoga to Vivasvan, who passed it on to Manu, then to the kings.

4.2. This knowledge was passed down but lost over time.

4.3. Krishna now teaches Arjuna because he is his devotee and friend.

4.4. Arjuna wonders how Krishna could have taught him in ancient times.

4.5. Krishna says that both He and Arjuna have taken many births, but Krishna remembers them all.

4.6. Krishna has the divine power to appear even though He is unborn and imperishable.

4.7 Whenever righteousness declines and unrighteousness rises, Krishna manifests Himself.

4.8. He comes to protect the good, destroy the wicked, and re-establish dharma.

4.9. One who knows Krishna’s divine birth and actions is not reborn after death.

4.10. Freed from attachment, fear, and anger, many have attained Him.

Verse 11-15: The Path to Liberation and the Nature of Action

4.11. People approach Krishna in many ways, and He rewards them accordingly.

4.12. Those who desire worldly success worship gods and gain quick success.

4.13. Based on qualities and work, Krishna created four divisions of society.

4.14 The creator of action, Krishna, remains unattached to its results.

4.15. Knowing this, the ancient seekers acted and attained liberation.

Verse 16-23: The Wisdom of Right Action vs. Inaction

4.16. Arjuna will learn about the depth of action from Krishna.

4.17. One must understand right action, wrong action, and inaction.

4.18. The wise see inaction in action and action in inaction.

4.19. Those whose actions are free from desire are truly wise.

4.20. Abandoning attachments to results. They remain contented and unaffected.

4.21. Acting without ownership or desire, such people remain free from sin.

4.22. Content with whatever comes, they are beyond dualities and envy.

4.23. A mind focused on knowledge burns actions done without desire.

Verse 24-33 - Sacrifice and its forms.

4.24. Yoga views the act of offering, the offering itself, and the recipient as divine.

4.25. Sacrifices are offered to gods by some, and knowledge is sacrificed by others.

4.26. Some offer their sense of self-control as a sacrifice.

4.27. In some cases, the fire of self-discipline consumes all sense activities.

4.28. Some sacrifice wealth, austerity, or studying, all aimed at self-purification.

4.29. Others control their breath through regulation and restraint as a sacrifice.

4.30. All of these sacrifices are performed with knowledge and discipline.

4.31. A person who eats the nectar of sacrifice attains eternal Brahman.

4.32. Many types of sacrifice are mentioned in the Vedas; all are rooted in action.

4.33. Knowledge sacrifice is superior to material sacrifice.

Verses 34-42: The Supreme Power of Knowledge

4.34. Approach a real teacher with humility, questions, and a desire to serve, to gain wisdom.

4.35. You will never be deluded again with such knowledge.

4.36. Even the most sinful can cross the ocean of sin with knowledge.

4.37. As fire burns wood to ashes, knowledge burns all karma.

4.38. Nothing is more purifying than knowledge; it matures over time and in self-control.

4.39. The faithful, devoted, and self-controlled attain knowledge and peace.

4.40. The ignorant, faithless, and doubtful perish; they find neither happiness nor liberation.

4.41. Those who are self-controlled, detached, and wise are free from bonding.

4.42. With the sword of knowledge, Krishna advises Arjuna to cut away the doubts in his heart, rise, and fight!

The fourth chapter of the celestial Bhagavad Gita's Upanishad, "The Yoga of Renunciation of Action with Right Knowledge," closes with the knowledge of the Absolute, the yogic scripture, and Arjuna's dispute with Bhagavan Krishna.


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 5: Karma Sanyasa Yoga

Summary: This chapter of the Bhagavad Gita addresses Arjuna’s confusion about which path is superior: renunciation of actions (Sannyasa) or performance of actions (Karma Yoga). One should not renounce actions but their fruits. True renunciation is the renunciation of all desires and devotion. In yoga, Brahman is regarded as the ultimate happiness.

Verses 1-6: Renunciation and Action

 5.1: Arjuna asks Krishna to clarify whether renunciation of action or selfless action is superior.

5.2: Krishna says both lead to liberation, but selfless action is better than mere renunciation.

5.3: One who is free from likes and dislikes is truly a renunciator.

5.4: The wise see renunciation and selfless action as the same when both are understood.

5.5: What is attained by renunciation is equally attained by selfless action.

5.6: Mere renunciation without discipline is difficult; selfless action purifies quickly.

Verses 7-12: The Self-Realized State

5.7: A self-controlled person engaged in selfless action is pure and sees all beings equally.

5.8: The wise see themselves as non-doers in all activities.

5.9: They think, “I do nothing,” even while acting through their senses.

5.10: Offering all actions to God, they remain untouched by sin, like a lotus leaf washed by water.

5.11: Yogis act with their body, mind, intellect, and senses for self-purification.

5.12: The selfless worker attains peace; the selfish worker is bound by desire.

Verses 13-18: The True Nature of Self

 5.13: After mentally repenting of his actions, the self-realized lives contentedly in the city of nine gates.

5.14; The natural world operates independently because God does not create deeds or doers, or is the result of action.

5.15 God is impartial; ignorance covers knowledge and deludes all beings.

5.16: When ignorance is destroyed, wisdom reveals the Supreme, like the sun illuminates all.

5.17: With their intellect fixed on God, their sins are destroyed, and they reach freedom.

5.18: The wise will see a learned Brahmin, a cow, an elephant, a dog, and an outcast.

Verses 19-23: The Path to Divine Consciousness

 5.19 Those with equal vision will overcome the dualities of this world in this life.

5.20: They are not elated by gain nor depressed by loss, dwelling on the Self.

5.21 There is no attachment to external pleasures for them, as they find the happiness within themselves.

5.22 Worldly pleasures are temporary and cause sorrow; the wise avoid them.

5.23 Those who control their desire and anger before death are yogis.

Verses 24-29; the Yogi's Eternal Peace.

5.24: Joy is within, the light is within; such a yogi attains liberation.

5.25: Sages free from desire and anger, with their minds under control, find liberation.

5.26: A self-controlled sage, free from desire, attained Brahman's bliss.

5.27: Focusing inwardly, they close external contacts.

5.28: By regulating his breath and senses, the Sage is free from desire, fear, and anger.

5.29: Knowing Me (Krishna) as the enjoyer, Lord, and friend of all beings, they shall attain peace.

Thus ends the fifth chapter, named Karma Sanyasa Yoga or the Yoga of Renunciation of Action in the Upanishad of the divine Bhagavad Gita, the knowledge of the Absolute, the yogic scripture, and the debate between Arjuna and Lord Krishna.


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 6. The Yoga of Self-Control

Summary: The purpose of this chapter is to explore the practice of self-restraint and control over one's desires, which eventually leads to even-mindedness in one's actions. Behaviour: A yogi who practices self-control conquers himself and attains oneness with Brahman. Through contemplative practice, he attains supreme peace and oneness.

Verse 1-4: The Path to Meditation and Self-Discipline

6.1. True renunciation is doing one’s duty without attachment to its results.

6.2. When free of desire, a yogi is both a renouncer and an action-taker.

6.3. For the beginner, work is the path; for the adept, stillness is the path.

6.4. One who is unattached to possessions and actions is truly a yogi.

Verse 5-9: Raising the Self by the Self

6.5. Don't degrade yourself, take care of your mind; it is either your friend or foe.

6.6. The mind is a friend when mastered and an enemy when uncontrolled.

6.7. The self-realized yogi sees success and failure equally.

6.8. A yogi established in knowledge sees cloud, stone, and gold as equals.

6.9. A yogi of such a nature treats everyone equally, whether they are friends, enemies, neutrals, or strangers.

Verses 10-19: Meditation

6.10. A yogi should live in solitude, be self-controlled, and be without attachments.

6.11. Select a clean, solid seat for meditation. Not excessively high or low.

6.12. Sit steadily, focusing the mind on the Self, with the senses subdued.

6.13. Keep your body, head, and neck straight and still during meditation.

6.14. With a serene mind and a fearless heart, fix your thoughts on Me with devotion.

6.15. Constantly absorbed in meditation, the yogi attains supreme peace.

6.16. Moderation in eating, sleeping, and activity is essential for yoga.

6.17. Balanced habits: Make yoga a destroyer of suffering.

6.18. When the mind is steady in the Self, detached from desires, one is a yogi.

6.19. A yogi’s mind is like a steady flame sheltering against the wind.

Verses 20-27: The Transcendental State

 6.20. In deep meditation, the yogi rejoices in the Self alone.

6.21. There is an inner joy that is beyond the senses, and that can never be lost.

6.22. Once attained, no gain surpasses it, and sorrow is dispelled.

6.23. It is known as yoga, freedom from union with sorrow.

6.24. Give up all desires born of will and control the senses.

6.25. Withdraw the mind gradually into the Self with a firm resolve.

6.26. Whenever the mind wanders, bring it back under control.

6.27. The peaceful yogi attains boundless happiness by being free from sin.

Verse 28-32: The Vision of an Enlightened Yogi

6.28. Through constant meditation, the yogi experiences infinite bliss.

6.29. Seeing all beings in the Self and the Self in all, the yogi sees everything equally

6.30. One who sees Me everywhere and everything is in Me never loses Me.

6.31. The yogi who is devoted to Me and sees Me in all abides in Me.

6.32. The highest yogi treats others’ joys and sorrows as his own.

Verses 33-36: Arjuna's Doubt and Krishna's Response

6.33. In Arjuna's mind, such steady yoga does not seem practical.

6.34. In his letter, he admits that his mind is restless, turbulent, and prone to erratic behavior.

6.35. Krishna agrees but says it can be controlled through practice and detachment.

6.36. Without self-control, yoga is impossible; with effort, it is attainable.

Verse 37-45: The Fate of the Unsuccessful Yogi

6.37. Arjuna asks what happened to the yoga student who failed midway.

6.38. Having neither worldly nor spiritual success, he fears, a person will perish.

6.39. Arjuna asked if anyone was truly lost in such a case.

6.40. In yoga, Krishna assures us that no effort is wasted.

6.41. The unsuccessful yogi is reborn into a pure or prosperous family.

6.42. Or he was born into a family of wise yogis, which is rare.

6.43. A new sense of perfection emerges in him as he regains his former knowledge.

6.44. Past discipline drove him toward the goal, even unconsciously.

6.45. Through sustained effort across lifetimes, he has attained perfection.

Verse 46-47: Yoga supremacy

6.46. Yogis are superior to asceticism, scholars, and ritualists.

6.47. A yogi who has faith in Me is the highest among yogis.

The sixth chapter of the celestial Bhagavad-Gita's Upanishad, Yoga of Self Control, concerns knowledge of the Absolute, yogic scriptures, and Arjuna and Krishna's disagreement


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 7. The Yoga of Knowledge and Wisdom

Summary: This chapter explores the significance of knowledge and wisdom. Only after innumerable births does a person attain the true understanding of self and the wisdom to worship God with true devotion. Deluded people remain bound to the cycle of births and deaths with their ignorant ways, while the wise ones worship God through determination and attain liberation.

Verses 1-7: The Two Natures of the Supreme Lord

7.1. Krishna invites Arjuna to hear how knowing Him completely will remove doubt.

7.2. He promises to reveal both knowledge and wisdom, leaving nothing unknown.

7.3. Among the thousands, few strive for perfection; among the perfected, few truly know Him.

7.4. His material nature consists of eight elements: earth, water, fire, air, ether, mind, intellect, and ego.

7.5. Beyond this is His higher nature, conscious living beings.

7.6. All beings arise from these two natures; He is the origin and dissolution of all.

7.7.7. Nothing is higher than Him; all rest on Him like gems on a thread.

Verses 8-12: Krishna's Divine Manifestations

7.8. He is the taste in water, light in the sun and moon, sacred syllable Om, sound in space, and manhood in man.

7.9. He is the fragrance in earth, the heat in fire, the life in all beings, and penance in ascetics.

7.10. He is the eternal seed of all beings, the intelligence of the intelligent, and the prowess of the strong.

7.11. He is strong, free from desire and passion, and his desires are in line with Dharma.

7.12. All states of being — goodness, passion, and ignorance — arise from Him, though He is beyond them.

Verses 13-19: Overcoming Delusion and the Four Kinds of Devotees

7.13. The world, deluded by these three modes, fails to recognize Him.

7.14. Those who surrender to Him can overcome His divine energy.

7.15. Devils, fools, and those of a demonic nature will not surrender to Him.

7.16. Those who are distressed, those who seek wealth, the curious, and the wise worship Him.

7.17. Of these, the wise, devoted to Him alone, are dearest to Him.

7.18. Though all are noble, only the wise person is like God.

7.19. After many births, the wise realize that He is all, and surrender to Him.

Verses 20-26: Worship the demigods vs. the Supreme

7.20. Those whose wisdom is taken by desires worship other gods, following their own nature.

7.21. He grants unwavering faith to those devoted to other gods.

7.22. They worship Him and obtain their desires through such faith.

7.23. These types of worship have temporary results; the worshippers of gods go to them, while His devotees remain with Him.

7.24. The ignorant think He was impersonal before and has now taken on form, not knowing His higher nature.

7.25. Veiled by His divine power, He is not manifest to all, and the deluded do not recognize Him as unborn and eternal.

7.26. Despite knowing every being in the past, present, and future, He is still unknown to them all.

Verses 27-30: Transcendence and the Attainment of the Supreme

7.27. All beings are born into delusion caused by desire and hatred.

7.28. Those whose sins are destroyed, who act righteously, and are freed from delusion, worship Him with firm vows.

7.29. Those striving for liberation from old age and death take refuge in Him and know Brahman and the Self.

7.30. Those who know Him as the Supreme, both in the material and spiritual realms, remember Him even at death.

Thus concludes the seventh chapter of the Bhagavad Gita. It is known as the Upanishad on the Knowledge of the Absolute, a yogic scripture presented in the form of a dialogue between Arjuna and Lord Krishna.


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 8. The yoga of an Imperishable Brahman

Summary: This chapter clarifies the difference between the personal soul and the universal Divine Spirit. It describes what happens after death, explaining who is reborn into the cycle of life and who achieves liberation in the eternal realm of Brahman. A life of discipline, purity, meditation, and devotion leads to the realization of one's ultimate truth.

Verses 1-7. Arjuna's Questions and Krishna's Answers

8.1. Arjuna asks Krishna to explain Brahman, the Self, action, the material world, and the divine.

8.2. He inquires about the process of one's realization of God at death.

8.3. According to Krishna, Brahman is the supreme Absolute, the Self is the individual soul, and the action is the manifestation of the Absolute.

8.4. The physical realm is a perishable nature; the divine realm is the Supreme Person; sacrifice is offered to the divine presence in the body.

8.5. Those who remember Him at death will attain Him without doubt.

8.6. Upon death, one attains the state one imagines.

8.7. Keep your mind and intellect fixed on Him while you do your duty.

Verse 8-16. The Practice of Yoga and Attaining the Supreme

8.8. The yogi who constantly meditates on Him attains Him easily.

8.9. Fix your mind on the all-knowing, timeless, omnipresent Lord who is beyond comprehension.

8.10. The steadfast yogi at death, focusing between the eyebrows, attains the Supreme.

8.11. Krishna shows how meditation and detachment can lead to the path known to sages.

8.12. One unites with the Supreme in meditation through control over the senses, mind, and life force.

8.13. Uttering with Om and leaving the body in devotion leads to the Supreme Abode.

8.14. One who remembers Him constantly, without distraction, attains Him easily.

8.15 Those who reach Him never return to sorrow's world.

8.16. All worlds, including Brahma’s, are subject to rebirth, but reaching Him ends with rebirth.

Verses 17-22. The Cycle of Creation and Annihilation

8.17. In Brahma, both a day and a night are a thousand years.

8.18. Beings manifest at dawn and dissolve at dusk during Brahma's day.

8.19. This cycle of creation and dissolution repeats endlessly.

8.20. Beyond this perishable world is the imperishable, which never ceases to be.

8.21. Dedicated people achieve the imperishable as their highest goal.

8.22. The Supreme Person, dwelling beyond, is reached by exclusive devotion.

Verses 23-28. The Path of Light and the Path of Darkness

8.23. In the scriptures, Krishna explains that there are two paths after death, one bright and one dark.

8.24. Those who follow the bright path attain liberation and do not return.

8.25. Those who depart on the dark path return to the cycle of birth and death.

8.26. These two paths are timeless. The yogi is never confused by them

8.27. Be steadfast in your yoga practice and rise above the fruits of merit.

8.28. The yogi achieves the highest goal beyond study, sacrifice, austerity, and charity.

Here concludes the eighth chapter, "The Yoga of the Imperishable Brahman," in the sacred Bhagavad Gita. This text is revered as an Upanishad (knowledge of the Absolute), a yogic Scripture, and the timeless dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Bhagavan Krishna.


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 9. The Yoga of Sovereign Knowledge and Mystery

Summary: This chapter explores the secrets of Brahman, the all-pervading Supreme Self, the ultimate object of all sacrifices, meditative practices, and devotional worship, who is the creator and upholder of all, and whose greatness is discerned only by the wise. A person who knows the scriptures does not attain liberation; one who worships God does.

Verses 1-6: The King of Knowledge

9.1. Krishna reveals the supreme, secret, and pure knowledge that grants liberation and joy.

9.2. This wisdom is the king of science, easily practiced, and imperishable.

9.3. The cycle of birth and death returns to those without faith in this teaching.

9.4. All beings exist in Krishna, who pervades the entire universe.

9.5. Yet, not all beings dwell in Him due to His divine mystery.

9.6. Just as the wind moves within space, all beings rest in Krishna.

Verses 7-10: Creation, Dissolution, and Krishna's Neutrality

9.7. Every cosmic cycle ends with all beings merging into Krishna, and each cycle ends with them emanating from Krishna.

9.8. By His will, creation manifests repeatedly without binding Him.

9.9. He is detached from creation and destruction, remaining unaffected by them.

9.10. All beings are created under His supervision by material nature.

Verses 11-15: Misunderstanding the Supreme Lord

9.11. The ignorant disregard Him when He appears in human form.

9.12. Such deluded souls take refuge in demonic and materialistic natures.

9.13. He is worshipped without wavering by great souls.

9.14. Faithful to Him, they strive steadfastly to reach the goal they have set.

9.15. Some worship Him in His many forms through their knowledge of Him.

Verses 16-25: Krishna is everything.

9.16. Krishna is the ritual, the sacrifice, the offer, the herb, and the sacred chant.

9.17. He is the father, mother, sustainer, and in the Vedic scriptures.

9.18. Ultimately, he is the goal, refuge, friend, witness, abode, and dissolution of all these things.

9.19. He gives heat, sends rain, and withholds it, and is immortal and beyond death.

9.20. Vedic ritualists go to heaven, but they return after they have exhausted their merit.

9.21. As if bound by desire and rebirth, they keep returning to earthly existence.

9.22. Those who worship Krishna exclusively are personally cared for by Him.

9.23. His worship is even unknowingly practiced by those who worship other gods.

9.24. Those who worship Him miss His true nature. He enjoys and is Lord of all sacrifices.

9.25. A worshipper of a god goes to a god; a devotee of Krishna goes to Krishna.

Verses 26-34: The Path of Pure Devotion

9.26. Whatever is offered to Him with love—a leaf, flower, fruit, or water—He accepts.

9.27. Whatever one does, eats, offers, or gives, do it as an offering to Him.

9.28. Acting thus, one becomes free from bondage and attains liberation.

9.29. Krishna is equal to all but specially cherishes His devoted worshippers.

9.30. It is right to regard even a sinner who worships God with devotion as righteous.

9.31. Such a devotee quickly becomes virtuous and attains lasting peace.

9.32. Anyone—women, merchants, laborers—who takes refuge in Him reaches the supreme goal.

9.33. How much more so for righteous Brahmins and devoted kings; therefore, they strive for Him.

9.34. Fix your mind on Him, be devoted, worship Him, bow to Him, and you will reach Him.

Consequently, the ninth chapter of the divine Bhagavad Gita culminates in the "Yoga of Supreme Knowledge and the Supreme Secret," encompassing the knowledge of the Absolute, the principles of yogic scripture, and the essential dialogue between Arjuna and Lord Krishna.


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 10. The yoga of Manifestation

Summary: This chapter examines the glory and self-expression of the Divine, arguing that God is both concealed and revealed within the most exalted facets of existence, as the fountainhead of all wisdom, virtue, and beauty. Through a series of exemplars, it demonstrates how the singular, all-pervading reality of Brahman can be discerned within the plurality of the world.

 Verses 1-7: The Lord's Supreme Nature

10.1. Krishna speaks once again, revealing His supreme words to Arjuna.

10.2. Neither gods nor sages know His origin, for He is the source of all.

10.3. One who knows Him as the unborn and the Lord of all worlds is freed from delusion and sin.

10.4. From Him arise intellect, wisdom, clarity, patience, truthfulness, and self-control.

10.5. Fearlessness, purity, charity, compassion, and restraint of the senses are also derived from Him.

10.6. Four ancient Manus and the seven great sages were born of Him.

10.7. Knowing His glory leads to unwavering devotion and certainty.

Verses 8-11: The Path of Devotion

10.8. He is the source of all; the wise, knowing this, worship Him with love.

10.9. The wise delight in speaking and hearing Him constantly.

10.10. Those who are truly devoted receive the understanding to reach Him.

10.11. Through knowledge, He dispels their ignorance out of compassion.

Verses 12-18: Arjuna's Request for More Knowledge

10.12. Arjuna declares Krishna  Brahman, the highest abode, and the eternal truth.

10.13. Sages and divine beings affirm Krishna’s supreme nature.

10.14. Arjuna accepts all Krishna says as truth; no one knows Him fully.

10.15. Only Krishna knows Himself by His own power.

10.16. Arjuna requests to hear of Krishna’s divine glory, which pervades all.

10.17. He asks how to meditate upon Krishna in thought.

10.18. Arjuna urges Krishna to speak endlessly of His divine powers.

Verses 19-42: The Lord's Expansions

10.19. Krishna begins by describing His prominent manifestation.

10.20. He is the Self in all beings, at the beginning, middle, and end.

10.21. Among the Adityas, He is Vishnu; among lights, the radiant sun; among Maruts, He is Marici; among stars, the moon.

10.22. Among the Vedas, He is the Sama Veda; among the gods, Indra; among the senses, the mind; among beings, consciousness.

10.23. Among the Rudras, He is Shiva; among the Yakshas and Rakshasas, Kubera; among the Vasus, He is Agni; among the mountains, Meru.

10.24. Among priests, He is Brihaspati; among generals, Skanda; among bodies of water, the ocean.

10.25. Among all sages, He is Bhrigu; among words, the sacred "OM"; among sacrifices, He is japa (chanting); among immovables, the Himalayas.

10.26. Among the trees, He is Ashvattha; among the Sages, Nararada; among the Gandharvas, Chitraratha; among the perfected beings, Kapila.

10.27. Among horses, He is Ucchaisravas; among elephants, Airavata; among men, the king.

10.28. Among weapons, He is the thunderbolt; among cows, Kamadhenu; among serpents, Vasuki; among Nagas, Ananta.

10.29. All water creatures refer to him as Varuna; his ancestors refer to him as Aryaman; and he is known as Yama among those who uphold the law.

10.30. Among Daityas, He is Prahlada; among measurers, time; among animals, the Lion; among birds, Garuda.

10.31. Among purifiers, He is the wind; among warriors, Rama; among fish, the shark; among rivers, the Ganges.

10.32. He is the beginning, middle, and end of creation; among sciences, the science of the Self; among disputants, sound reasoning.

10.33. Among letters, He is the sacred syllable "A." Among compounds, He is dual. He is the endless time and all-sustaining Brahman.

10.34. He is death that takes all, and the source of all future beings; among feminine qualities, He is fame, fortune, speech, memory, intelligence, steadfastness, and patience.

10.35. Among the hymns, He is the Brihat-sama; among the meters, the Gayatri; among the months, Margashirsha; among the seasons, spring.

10.36. He is the cunning gambler's sleight of hand, the essence of magnificence. He is victory itself, the power of resolve, and the source of a strong man's strength.

10.37. Among Vrishnis, He is Vasudeva; among Pandavas, Arjuna; among sages, Vyasa; among poets, Ushana.

10.38. He is the power of rulers, the policy of conquerors, the silence of secrets, and the knowledge of the wise.

10.39. He is the seed of all beings, without which nothing exists.

10.40. His divine manifestations have no limit; this description is only a brief glimpse.

10.41. Whatever is glorious, prosperous, or powerful is born of a fraction of His splendour.

10.42 Even a part of Him is enough to fill and uphold all of creation.

This concludes the tenth chapter, "The Yoga of Divine Manifestations," in the sacred dialogue of the Bhagavad Gita. Herein, Lord Krishna reveals the all-pervading nature of the Absolute to Arjuna through yoga and divine knowledge.


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 11. The Yoga of Universal Cosmic Vision

Summary: The chapter presents the vision of Brahman’s universal form in His aspect as Time (Kāla), the all-consuming principle identified as the Destroyer and the God of Death. At Arjuna’s request, Krishna manifests this divine form before him. This revelation reveals that God has already predetermined the future course of events, requiring humans only to participate in this cosmic order and act as instruments in bringing about His will.

Verses 1-8: Arjuna's Request & Krishna's Revelation

11.1. Arjuna expresses gratitude for Krishna’s revelation of profound spiritual truths.

11.2. He rejoices at hearing about Krishna’s divine glory and supreme greatness.

11.3. Arjuna now expresses his desire to see Krishna in His cosmic form.

11.4. If Krishna deems it possible, Arjuna requests Him to reveal this universal vision.

11.5. Krishna agrees to show Arjuna His vast cosmic form.

11.6. The sage instructs Arjuna to witness all the divine forms united in one.

11.7. Arjuna will see the entire universe in Krishna’s form.

11.8. Krishna grants Arjuna divine eyes to witness this vision.

Verse 9-14: The Vision of the Cosmic Form

11.9. Sanjaya describes Krishna revealing His supreme and universal form.

11.10. The form had countless faces, eyes, and ornaments, radiating immense splendor.

11.11. It shone like a thousand suns rising at once.

11.2. Within Krishna's body, Arjuna saw the entire universe.

11.13. Amazed, Arjuna’s hair stood on end.

11.14. Bowing in reverence, Arjuna spoke to Krishna.

Verses 15-31: Arjuna's Awe and Terror

11.15. He saw gods, sages, and all beings in Krishna’s cosmic form.

11.16. He beholds countless arms, bellies, mouths, and eyes without end.

11.17. He is overwhelmed by Krishna’s boundless radiance.

11.8. Arjuna praises Krishna as the supreme, eternal being.

11.19. He recognizes Krishna as the source of all creation.

11.20. All the worlds were trembling before Krishna’s awe-inspiring form.

11.21. Among the gods and sages, He is praised and bowed to.

11.22. Multitudes of divine beings gaze on in wonder.

11.23. Arjuna trembled, unable to comprehend Krishna’s fierceness.

11.24. He sees Krishna touching the heavens and blazing in all directions.

11.25. Arjuna is terrified of Krishna’s fanged mouth.

11.26. He saw all the warriors from both armies rushing into Krishna’s mouth.

11.27. Some are crushed between Krishna’s terrible teeth.

11.28. Arjuna likens them to rivers flowing into the ocean.

11.29. He compares them to moths rushing into a blazing fire.

11.30. Krishna devours all beings, licking the world with blazing mouths.

11.31. Arjuna asks who Krishna is in this fierce form.

Verses 32-34: The Revelation of Time and the Call to Action

11.32. It is Krishna who declares Himself to be Time, the destroyer of worlds.

11.33. Krishna has already slain the enemies through the will of Arjuna.

11.34. Krishna assures Arjuna of victory and urges him to act as His instrument.

Verse 35-46: Arjuna's Prayers of Praise and Fear

11.35. Sanjaya describes Arjuna’s trembling response.

11.36. Arjuna glorifies Krishna, recognizing His supreme power.

11.37. The Creator declares that all beings must bow down to Him.

11.38. He identifies Krishna as the primal God and refuge of the universe.

11.39. Arjuna offers obeisance from all directions.

11.40. He praises Krishna’s infinite power and pervasiveness.

11.41. If he showed any disrespect in familiarity, he apologized.

11.42. If he has transgressed in the past, he seeks forgiveness.

11.43. In terms of glory and power, Krishna is unmatched.

44. Arjuna bows repeatedly, seeking Krishna’s grace.

11.45. In his overwhelmed state, Arjuna wishes to see Krishna's gentler, familiar face.

11.46. He asks Krishna to return to his peaceful form with his crown, mace, and disc.

Verse 47-50: The Return to the Original Form and the Rarity of This Vision

11.47. Krishna explains that no one had seen this cosmic form.

11.48. It cannot be seen through Vedic study, ritual, charity, or penance.

11.49. Krishna tells Arjuna not to fear and to see Him in His gentle form again.

11.50. Sanjaya narrates that Krishna, having shown his terrible form, revealed his gentle four-armed form and then his peaceful two-armed form.

Verses 51-55: The Path to Pure Devotion

11.51. Arjuna regains composure and reveres Krishna.

11.52. Krishna declares that His divine form is exceedingly rare, even for the gods to witness.

11.53. It cannot be seen through study, austerity, charity, or sacrifice alone.

11.54. Only through pure, unwavering devotion can He truly be perceived and understood.

11.55. One who works for Krishna, is devoted, free from attachment, and kind to all, reaches Him.

Thus ends the eleventh chapter, the Yoga of Supreme Cosmic Vision in the Upanishad of the divine Bhagavad-Gita, the knowledge of the Absolute, the yogic scripture, and the debate between Arjuna and Lord Krishna.


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 12. The yoga of devotion.

Summary: This chapter reaffirms the ultimate path to commitment. It teaches you that people who worship the Divine with firm trust, fully concentrating their minds and dwelling in constant remembrance, are emancipated from the impermanent world and the cycle of reincarnation. The authentic yogi, who acts with virtue, regards all beings with equanimity and provides devotion, is most revered.

Verses 1–7: The Superiority of Personal Devotion

12.1. Arjuna asks whether worshipping the formless Absolute or the personal God is superior.

12.2. Krishna replied that those who fix their minds on Him with steadfast devotion are yogis.

12.3. Those who worship the formless, attribute less Absolute also attain liberation, though with difficulty.

12.4. These seekers should remain even-minded, control their senses, and work for everyone's benefit.

12.5. Worship of the unmanifest is hard because the path to abstraction is difficult for embodied beings.

12.6. But those who surrender to Krishna with devotion and faith are swiftly lifted from the ocean of mortality.

12.7. Krishna personally protects and delivers His devoted, single-minded worshippers.

Verse 8–12: The Hierarchy of Spiritual Practice

12.8. Fix your mind and intellect on Krishna alone, and you shall always abide in Him.

12.9. The practice of constant remembrance may help fix the mind if it cannot be fixed fully.

12.10. Dedicate your work to Krishna as a service if the practice is difficult.

12.11. Refrain from selfishness if that's too hard.

12.12. Practice is superior to knowledge, meditation is higher than knowledge, and the renunciation of results is still a higher choice.

Verses 13–20: The Qualities of a Devotee

12.13. Krishna describes His devotees as: free from malice, friendly, compassionate, and without ego or attachment.

12.14. Patient, content, disciplined, devoted, and resolute in mind, such a devotee is dear to Krishna.

12.15. The One who doesn't disturb others, or the World, is dear to Him.

12.16. He who is free from joy, envy, fear, and anxiety is also dear to Krishna.

12.17. The devotee who depends on nothing, is pure, impartial, skilled, and free from worry, is dear to Him.

12.18. One who is alike friend and foe, honor and dishonor, heat and cold, happiness and sorrow, is dear to Krishna.

12.19. Content with discipline, steady in mind, and devoted to Krishna, such a devotee is dear to Him.

12.20. Krishna is most pleased with those who faithfully follow this path of devotion.

Thus concludes the twelfth chapter, entitled “The Yoga of Devotion,” in the Bhagavad Gita Upanishad, a scripture of divine knowledge, a treatise on yoga, and a sacred dialogue between Arjuna and Lord Krishna.



Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 13: The Yoga of the Field and the Knower of the Field.

Summary: This chapter explores the distinction between the body and the Self, or the field (kshetra). Kshetrajna, also known as Nature (Prakriti) and Person (Purusha), is the Lord of the field (kshetrajna). Creation happens when Purusha is established in Prakriti. The whole diversity manifests itself from the union, and Purusha is their support.

Verses 1–7: The Field and the Knower of the Field

13.1. Arjuna asks Krishna to explain the difference between the body (field) and the soul (knowledge of the field).

13.2. Krishna begins: The body is called the field, and the one who knows it is the knower of the field.

13.3. Krishna Himself is the ultimate knower of all fields to everybody.

13.4. Knowledge comes from understanding the relationship between the field, the knower, and their relationship.

13.5. The Sages and Scriptures describe this knowledge in detail.

13.6. The field includes five elements: ego, intellect, the unmanifest, and the senses.

13.7. It also includes the mind, sense-objects, desire, aversion, pleasure, pain, the body, and consciousness.

Verses 8-12: The Knowledge Process

13.8. True knowledge consists of humility, non-violence, forgiveness, uprightness, and service to the teacher.

13.9. It includes purity, steadiness, self-control, detachment, the absence of ego, and awareness of birth and death.

13.10. Renunciation of worldly entanglements and constant even-mindedness are also part of your knowledge.

13.11. Devotion to God, love of solitude, and detachment from crowds are true knowledge.

13.12. Constant self-reflection and realization of the Supreme as the highest goal is knowledge; the rest is ignorance.

Verses 13–18: The Supreme Brahman

13.13. Krishna now explains the Supreme: the beginningless Brahman beyond existence and non-existence.

13.14. This Supreme pervades everywhere, sustaining all beings, yet unattached.

13.15. It is beyond the senses, yet known through them; near and far, inside and outside all.

13.16. Moving and not moving, within and beyond, ambiguous.

13.17. Even though it is indivisible, the energy that sustains, devours, and generates seems divided among all beings.

13.18. It is the light of light beyond darkness, knowledge, the object of knowledge, and the goal of knowledge.

Verses 19–23: The Nature of Purusha and Prakriti

13.19. Thus, both the field and the knower have been described; knowing this leads to liberation.

13.20. Matter (Prakriti) and spirit (Purusha) are both beginningless; their union causes creation.

13.21. Purusha experiences pleasure and pain, while Prakriti gives rise to the body and senses.

13.22. A soul's attachment to the modes of nature binds it to higher or lower births.

13.23. The Supreme Soul is the witness, supporter, sustainer, enjoyer, and controller within all.

Verses 24–25: The Path to Liberation

13.24. One who understands both the field and the knower transcends birth and attains liberation.

13.25. Through meditation, knowledge, and selfless action, some individuals realize their true Self.

A debate between Lord Krishna and Arjuna concludes the thirteenth chapter of the Upanishad of the divine Bhagavad-Gita, titled 'The Yoga of the Field and the Knower of the Field'.


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