Bhagavad Gita Synopsis: Recent Episodes
R Sankaran
Krishna explains the practise of meditation when Arjuna asks him to explain the ways to control the restless mind which is more difficult than controlling the wind.
Analogy
Dhyana Yoga describes the practise of meditation as sustained attention on a chosen point of concentration. A yogi/meditator whose focus is fixed on the brahman(the supreme power) feels liberated, his mind is peaceful, his passions are quieted, and he is freed from sin.
Lesson
The mind is the best of friends for those who learn to control it. The practise of meditation with undeviating discipline, determination, and faith helps in controlling the ever wavering mind and the senses and helps attain supreme joy and inner peace.
Krishna explains the importance of renouncing the ego - the sense of self (I, me, myself) while performing karma (actions) to attain inner peace and purity of the mind.
Analogy
Renouncing the sense of doership will enable freedom from fear, anger, and desire which will in turn provide peace and control of the mind.
Lesson
Once you remove the sense of “I” - the ego, you will learn to appreciate all nature’s creations. Renouncing the ego helps you stay calm and react the same for both positive and negative experiences. Realize that nothing/nobody is perfect and defects are part of this creation. Each one of us is beautiful and unique in our own way. Accept and appreciate everything that you have. Practise gratitude. This will provide a sense of freedom and infinite joy.
Krishna explains the importance of knowledge to perform Karma, the action.
Analogy
Jñana Yoga teaches the importance of knowing the truth about actions. Actions performed with reason/knowledge can liberate a man from bondage to the fruits of the actions. Knowledge can be obtained from a teacher, by self-analysis, discussing with others and living through experience.
Lesson
Ignorance causes doubts. Doubts create fear. Fear leads to lack of action. To perform our duty/action whole-heartedly with interest, we need to understand the motive behind the actions, validate the righteousness of the action, have faith in the process and perform action by surrendering to god. Always strive to attain knowledge and never live in fear due to ignorance. “Think before you act”
Krishna explains the essence behind the “Self - The Ego” to Arjuna by illustrating the difference between the body and the soul to help Arjuna perform his Kshatriya duties even if it involves fighting against his beloved brothers and respected gurus.
Analogy
The “Self” is made up of the perishable body and the eternal soul. Though the body eventually leaves this world, the soul is unaffected by birth or death.
Lesson
Let go of the sense of self - “The Ego”. Everything and everyone around you is temporary. Perform your duties by always doing the right thing without attachment to the outcome of your actions. Never consider yourself entitled to the fruits of your actions. Accept the good and bad consequences with equanimity.
Krishna explains the power of action to Arjuna when he questions the need for engaging in destructive actions by fighting against his brothers.
Analogy
Karma Yoga teaches the importance of “duty” and the dynamics of right action. When we perform our duties sincerely with a positive attitude, the mind and heart gets slowly purified.
Lesson
Each one of us has specific duties towards oneself, the family and the society. Perform your duties/actions, however small they may be, with dedication, with a service attitude, and surrender to the higher power. Prepare to receive the results with devotion and without expectations. This is Karma Yoga.
Arjuna is terribly confused and does not want to fight against his brothers, gurus and close relatives.
Analogy
Our mind is a battlefield and we go through various confusions everyday.
Lesson
The first step is to take ownership of your troubles and confusions. Understand that they are caused by our own mind. Stop blaming outside forces and turn inward to find a solution.