Bhagavad Gita Advanced Lessons For The Western Mind podcast

1:54

Jerry Seinfeld jokes about the phrase "it is what it is' in his Netflix special, "23 Hours To Kill".

Bhagavad Gita Advanced Lessons for the Western Mind

Поширити

Головна серій•Feed

Bhagavad Gita lessons are a mirror to the self (you), revealing the nature of reality, the mind, and our place in the grand order of existence. It presents a step-by-step method to help seekers refine their thinking, emotions, and decision-making, guiding them toward freedom from limitation (moksha, or enlightenment) and a deep, unshakable clarity about life. This podcast is rooted in the Arsha Vidya tradition of Swami Dayananda Saraswati, offering a direct, nuanced, and highly relevant approach to the Gita’s teachings. Unlike other explanations that focus only on devotion, philosophy, or ethics in isolation, this study integrates Advaita Vedanta (Non-duality) with modern living, making the teachings practical, logical, and immediately applicable. The Bhagavad Gita’s wisdom is drawn from the Upanishads, forming the very core of Vedantic knowledge, a tradition preserved and passed down for thousands of years. By exploring all 18 chapters and 700 verses, this podcast will help you gain a comprehensive non-dual understanding of existence—not as abstract theory but as a lived reality. What makes these Bhagavad Gita lessons unique? – Nuanced Explanation – Andre breaks down complex Sanskrit terms and Vedantic ideas without oversimplification, preserving the depth and precision of the teaching. – Relevance to Modern Life – These teachings are not removed from daily living. You'll learn how to apply the Gita’s insights to relationships, work, personal growth, and inner peace. – Structured, Step-by-Step Approach – The course systematically unfolds the core Vedantic vision, ensuring each teaching builds upon the last for clear and deep understanding. – A Non-Dual Vision of Reality – This study does not merely interpret the Gita as a moral or religious text but reveals its Advaita (Non-dual) foundation, aligning with the teachings of Ramana Maharshi and Shankaracharya. Key themes explored: – The nature of the Self (Ātman) – Uncover your true identity beyond the body and mind. – Brahman and Māyā – Understand how the one reality appears as many, and why this illusion persists. – Karma, Dharma, and Free Will – Navigate action, choice, and responsibility with wisdom. – Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga – Explore the threefold path of knowledge, action, and devotion, and how they integrate. – The mind and emotions – Learn powerful methods for self-mastery, using Gita wisdom to refine perception and thought. – Ishvara (The Lord) and the Grand Order – Recognize how all of life operates within a profound and intelligent system. This study is not a one-time lecture but a living tradition meant to awaken insight, offering practical tools for clarity, stability, and transformation. Each lesson sharpens your viveka (discrimination) and deepens your vairāgya (dispassion), leading to a life of greater freedom, composure, and understanding. Join us as we delve into the science of consciousness, explore the Gita’s timeless wisdom, and uncover the highest self-knowledge—one that liberates the seeker from identification with the limited individual and the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsāra). This is not just an intellectual study. It is a journey into the heart of truth, a path that leads from confusion to clarity, restlessness to peace, and ignorance to self-recognition.

41 епізодів

#Chapter 2

Bhagavad Gita Advanced Lessons for the Western Mind

updated рік тому

Поширити

Головна серій•Feed

41 епізодів

#Chapter 2

Усі епізоди

1
1. Opening of Bhagavad Gita Course 2024: Mahabharata Story – Gita Dhyanam V1-3 1:24:23

14 weeks тому1:24:23

1:24:23

Lesson 1 of our Bhagavad Gita podcast course lessons - starts with meaning of opening prayer “Sahana Vavatu”. Guru-shishya-parampara importance. Story of Mahabharata. Earth is a wish-fulfilling tree. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/

1
2. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Gita Dhyanam V4-9 1:22:21

14 weeks тому1:22:21

1:22:21

Lesson 2 covers verses 4-9 of Gita Dhyanam, which explore the origin and universality of the Gita's teachings. Verse 4 compares the Upanishads to a cow, Krishna as the milkman extracting the nourishing wisdom for Arjuna. The teaching addresses both emotional and cognitive needs. Verse 5 explains Krishna as the universal guru, whose words reveal the reality that our true self is eternal, addressing the root cause of human longing. Verse 6 uses the analogy of Arjuna crossing the battlefield's obstacles, representing life's challenges that the Gita's wisdom helps navigate. Verse 7 highlights converting setbacks into learning opportunities, like how Bill Gates persisted to find a solution to water contamination in Africa. Verse 8 describes the Lord's grace earned through one's efforts in applying the teachings. Verse 9 reveals Krishna as the entire manifested universe itself, making our search for the Lord also a journey of self-discovery. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
3. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 1, Verse 1 (Why We Go Against Ethics) 1:21:56

14 weeks тому1:21:56

1:21:56

The Bhagavad Gita begins with the blind king Dhritarashtra asking his charioteer Sanjaya what his people, the Kauravas, and the Pandavas did as they gathered on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, eager to fight. The text provides context, explaining that the war arose from Duryodhana's jealousy of the Pandavas, leading him to defeat them through a game of dice and exile them, until the Pandavas‘ return sparked an inevitable conflict that Dhritarashtra did not attempt to stop, despite knowing his sons were on the side of unrighteousness. The text examines three possible reasons for Dhritarashtra‘s inaction: his “my family, my self-interests” mentality that blinded him to the larger context; various psychological biases like confirmation bias and status quo bias; and his own unfulfilled desire to be king, leading to a “victim mode” psychology. The text also suggests Dhritarashtra failed to recognize the war as part of Ishvara's (God's) order, and that his emotional connection to his relatives prevented him from seeing the interconnected nature of the world, in contrast with the example of Adi Shankara's debate where his opponent's wife remained impartial. The overview concludes by noting that the next verse will describe Sanjaya's response to Dhritarashtra's question. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
4. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 1, Verse 2-6 (Transforming Your Life) 1:23:25

14 weeks тому1:23:25

1:23:25

Chapter 1, Verse 2: Sanjaya narrates that Duryodhana approaches his teacher Drona, despite Bhisma being the army head, because Bhisma's unwavering vow to support the king's side is unshakeable. Duryodhana doubts Drona's loyalty due to Drona‘s favoritism towards Arjuna, exemplified by Arjuna‘s exceptional focus in a bird-shooting exercise. Duryodhana secures Drona's allegiance by leveraging Drona's love for his son, Ashvathama, who is close friends with Duryodhana. This interaction illustrates how personal considerations can influence one's sense of right and wrong. Duryodhana‘s psychological preparation of Drona is likened to a coach motivating players before a game, emphasizing the importance of mental readiness for significant events. Chapter 1, Verse 3: Duryodhana reminds Drona of the strong opposition, led by Drupada and Dhṛṣṭadyumna, to boost Drona‘s morale. By highlighting the formidable warriors on the opposing side, including Arjuna and Bhima, Duryodhana aims to ensure Drona‘s commitment. The narrative underlines Draupadi's influential role in the conflict, showcasing her strength, assertiveness, and the psychological impact she had on her brother and the Pandavas. Chapter 1, Verses 4-6: Duryodhana continues to enumerate the difficult-to-defeat warriors on the opposing side, such as Arjuna, Bhima, and Draupadi‘s brother. He discusses Draupadi's significant role in the Mahabharata, noting her assertiveness and influence despite her moments of arrogance. Duryodhana also mentions Virāṭa, who protected the Pandavas during their incognito year and chose to fight alongside them out of gratitude, and Abhimanyu, Arjuna‘s young but brilliant son, highlighting that brilliance and worthiness transcend age. Duryodhana's detailed account of the opposition's strength reveals his underlying insecurities as he prepares to discuss the warriors on his side. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
5. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 1, Verse 7-12 (Seeking for Recognition) 1:12:40

14 weeks тому1:12:40

1:12:40

Chapter 1, Verses 7-9: Duryodhana highlights the prominent warriors on his side to Drona, including: Bhishma (the grandsire of both the Kauravas and Pandavas); Karna (whose loyalty to Duryodhana stems from past humiliations and the support he received from him); Kripa (known for his prowess in battle); Ashwatthama (Drona’s son); Vikarna (a Kaurava prince); and Somadatta (a respected warrior). All who are ready to sacrifice their lives for him, according to him. This way he indirectly exposes his insecurity. Karna's story is revealed, including his birth through Kunti's boon, his lifelong complex of not being recognized as a Kshatriya, and his unwavering loyalty to Duryodhana due to his validation of Karna's talents. Karna's psychological need for validation is pointed out. Duryodhana's insecurities are analyzed, including his compensation through fake bravado. Chapter 1, Verse 10: Duryodhana contrasts the strength of the two armies, noting that while his is protected by the venerable Bhishma, the Pandavas‘ army is safeguarded by Bhima. He emphasizes Bhima as his greatest threat due to their long-standing rivalry, which includes Bhima's vow to kill Duryodhana in revenge for past wrongs, such as the incident where Duryodhana tried to poison and drown Bhima, and making Draupadi (Bhima's wife) sit on Duryodhana's lap. Chapter 1, Verse 11: Duryodhana shares his strategy to win the war by closely protecting Bhisma, who has a boon that allows him to leave this world only when he wants. The plot to kill Bhisma, involving Arjuna, Krishna, and Shikhandi, is detailed, showcasing Bhishma's obligation to his grandson Arjuna. Chapter 1, Verse 12: Bhishma, sensing Duryodhana's concerns and the gravity of the situation, blows his conch to signal the start of the battle and to boost the morale of his troops. The sound of the conch, akin to a lion's roar, serves to energize and rally the warriors, creating an atmosphere of readiness and determination. The conch's powerful resonance, much like background music in a film, sets the emotional tone for the impending conflict, illustrating the profound influence of sound in preparing the warriors for battle. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
6. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 1, Verse 13-23 (Refining Your Responses) 1:28:52

14 weeks тому1:28:52

1:28:52

Chapter 1, Verses 13-18: The battlefield was suddenly filled with a cacophony of sounds as conches , kettledrums, tabors, trumpets, and cow-horns were blasted simultaneously, creating an overwhelming, earth-shaking noise. Amidst this tumultuous setting, Krishna (the charioteer) and Arjuna (the warrior), seated in a resplendent chariot drawn by white horses, raised their divine conches and blew them, producing a sound that stood out even amidst the din. Krishna blew his conch (Panchajanya), Arjuna sounded his (Devadatta), and Bhima (known for his immense strength and fierce deeds) blew his mighty conch (Paundra). King Yudhishthira (eldest of the Pandavas) blew his conch (Anantavijaya), while his brothers Nakula blew his (Sughosha) and Sahadeva blew his (Manipushpaka). The king of Kasi (renowned for his expertise in archery), Sikhandi, Drishtadyumna, Virata (king of his Matsya kingdom), the unmatched Satyaki (a Yadava warrior), Drupada (king of Panchala kingdom), the sons of Draupadi, and Abhimanyu (the mighty-armed son of Subhadra) all blew their conches as well. This collective act symbolized their unity and readiness to fight , each conch contributing to the grand chorus of impending battle. Chapter 1, Verse 19: The deafening sound of the conches, resonating through the earth and sky, struck fear into the heart of Dhritarashtra , symbolizing the shattering of his illusions and the unavoidable reality of the impending war. This moment exemplifies how actions rooted in adharma (immorality) eventually return to the doer , as illustrated by the Mahabharata stories where aggression and revenge lead to greater destruction and suffering. For example, Drona's death following Yudhishthira's strategic deceit and Ashwatthama's retaliatory actions with devastating weapons highlight the lesson that letting go of aggression can neutralize powerful threats, much like the peaceful protests led by Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi. The verse underscores the inevitability of facing the consequences of one's actions and the ultimate collapse of false hopes and safety. In the following verses, Sanjaya shifts focus to Arjuna, setting the stage for his dialogue with Krishna. Chapter 1, Verse 20: As the battle was about to begin, Arjuna, bearing Hanuman on his banner , saw the sons of Dhritarashtra assembled. Lifting his bow, he prepared to speak to Krishna , his charioteer. Background Story how Krishna Got Involved in War : Both the Pandavas and Kauravas sought Krishna's help. Duryodhana stood at Krishna's head while he slept, and Arjuna sat by his feet. Upon awakening, Krishna first saw Arjuna and offered them a choice: his entire army and weapons or Krishna himself, who would not fight. Duryodhana chose the army, while Arjuna chose Krishna, valuing his wisdom over military strength. This choice symbolized humility (Arjuna at Krishna's feet) versus control (Duryodhana at Krishna's head). Chapter 1, Verse 21-23: Arjuna asks Krishna to position the chariot in the middle of the battlefield to clearly see both sides, aiming to assess the situation and determine the right course of action , considering the moral implications of the war. While Arjuna seeks clarity and moral insight, Duryodhana's strategy is to self-soothe by believing his soldiers are there to protect Bhishma and fight for him. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
7. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 1, Verse 24-34 (How to Make Right Decisions) 1:23:07

14 weeks тому1:23:07

1:23:07

Chapter 1, Verses 24-27: Sañjaya narrates to Dhritarashtra that Krishna, upon Arjuna's request, placed their chariot in the midst of the two armies. Arjuna then saw his kinsmen, including elders, teachers, uncles, brothers, sons, grandsons, friends, and well-wishers on both sides. Overcome with deep compassion and sorrow, he expressed his emotional turmoil. Chapter 1, Verses 28-31: Arjuna, addressing Krishna, revealed his intense emotional and physical distress upon seeing his relatives ready for battle. His body was trembling, his skin burning, and his mind confused. He foresaw bad omens and saw no good in killing his own kin. Chapter 1, Verse 32: Arjuna declared to Krishna that he had no desire for victory, kingdom, or pleasures, questioning the value of such gains without his loved ones. Chapter 1, Verse 33: He emphasized that the very people for whom he desired the kingdom and pleasures were now present on the battlefield, having sacrificed their wealth and lives. Chapter 1, Verse 34: Arjuna specified the loved ones on the opposing side: teachers, paternal uncles, sons, grandfathers, maternal uncles, in-laws, grandsons, cousins, friends, and other relatives. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
8. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 1, Verse 35-39 (Managing Challenging Relationships) 1:34:18

14 weeks тому1:34:18

1:34:18

Chapter 1, Verses 35: Arjuna expresses his unwillingness to fight and kill his relatives, even if they try to kill him. He states that he doesn't desire to fight for the sake of winning the kingdom, even if it means gaining sovereignty over the three worlds (heaven, earth, and the lower worlds). Arjuna's stance is that the loss of loved ones is not worth the potential gains of war, regardless of the consequences of walking away from the battlefield. Chapter 1, Verses 36: Arjuna questions the satisfaction that would come from destroying the sons of Dhritarashtra (Kauravas). He believes that killing these wrongdoers would only bring sin upon them (the Pandavas). Here, Arjuna introduces the concept of papa (sin or demerit) and its counterpart, punya (merit). He explains that any action performed has two kinds of results: seen (drsta phalam) and unseen (adrsta phalam). The immediate results are apparent, but the unseen results manifest later in life or future lives. Arjuna is concerned about the negative unseen consequences (papa) that would result from causing destruction and suffering. Chapter 1, Verses 37: Arjuna further justifies his position, stating that if both the seen and unseen results of fighting will be unfavorable, there is no reason to engage in war. He believes that killing one's own relatives (Kauravas) would only lead to future suffering and unhappiness. Arjuna's concern is not merely about being kind to his cousins but about the personal consequences of committing actions that go against his values. He emphasizes that doing the right thing should be motivated by one's own well-being, not just as a favor to others. Chapter 1, Verses 38-39: These verses highlight Arjuna's exalted thinking and his refusal to conform to the misguided actions of others. Even though the Kauravas, whose minds are overpowered by greed, fail to see the faults in destroying family and betraying friends, Arjuna chooses to act according to his own wisdom and values. He questions why the Pandavas, who understand the sinful consequences of destroying family, should not withdraw from such actions. Arjuna's stance is that one should guide their decisions based on what they believe is right, rather than succumbing to societal norms or the behavior of others. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining one's ethical standards, regardless of what others are doing. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
9. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 1, Verse 40-47 (Dealing with Hurt & Distortions) 1:27:05

14 weeks тому1:27:05

1:27:05

Chapter 1, Verses 40-41: Arjuna expands his perspective, considering the broader societal impact of war. He argues that destroying families leads to the loss of traditions and the rise of unrighteousness, corrupting women and causing caste intermixture. This reflects how societal dysfunction can stem from broken families. Verse essence: When families are destroyed, traditions perish, leading to societal unrighteousness and corruption. Chapter 1, Verses 42: Arjuna explains how societal breakdown leads to adharma. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of generations and the importance of ancestral rituals. The verse touches on collective guilt and its long-term effects, as seen in post-World War II Germany. Verse essence: Family destruction leads to suffering and the neglect of ancestral rituals. Chapter 1, Verses 43: Arjuna foresees long-term societal dysfunction resulting from the war, including the destruction of traditions and family values. He questions the personal benefit of ruling a devastated kingdom, showing concern for both immediate and future consequences. Verse essence: The misdeeds of family destroyers lead to the breakdown of caste and family traditions. Chapter 1, Verse 44: Arjuna reiterates the negative consequences for those who disrupt family dharma. This verse contrasts two archetypes: Duryodhana, who focuses on personal gain, and Arjuna, who considers long-term consequences for self and others. Verse essence: Those who destroy family dharma are destined for suffering. Chapter 1, Verse 45: Arjuna experiences guilt and hurt, realizing the gravity of his intended actions. The verse explores the concepts of guilt and hurt, their differences, and their impacts on one's mindset. Verse essence: Arjuna recognizes the great sin of killing relatives for kingdom and pleasure. Chapter 1, Verse 46: Overwhelmed by emotions and analysis, Arjuna declares his refusal to fight. He expresses willingness to die unarmed rather than engage in battle, marking his final stance before physical collapse. Verse essence: Arjuna prefers to die unarmed than kill his relatives in battle. Chapter 1, Verse 47: Sanjaya describes Arjuna's physical and mental state to Dhritarashtra. Arjuna, overcome by sorrow, sits down and abandons his weapons, symbolizing his decision not to fight. Verse essence: Arjuna, overwhelmed by sorrow, sits down and casts aside his weapons. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
10. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 2, Verse 1-7 (Purpose of Guru) 1:07:51

14 weeks тому1:07:51

1:07:51

Chapter 2, Verse 1: Sanjaya describes Arjuna's distressed state to Dhritarashtra, setting the scene for Krishna's response. This verse highlights the emotional turmoil Arjuna is experiencing, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Verse essence: Arjuna is overwhelmed with grief and tears, prompting Krishna to speak. Chapter 2, Verses 2-3: Krishna challenges Arjuna's despair, urging him to regain composure and face his duty. This unexpected response from Krishna serves to shake Arjuna out of his emotional state and push him towards deeper introspection. Krishna's words highlight the importance of fulfilling one's duty, even in difficult circumstances. Verse essence: Krishna criticizes Arjuna's weakness, urging him to overcome his despair and fulfill his duty. Chapter 2, Verses 4-5: Arjuna justifies his reluctance to fight, citing respect for elders and the sin of killing them. This response demonstrates a common trap of philosophizing to mask insecurities. Arjuna's arguments, while seemingly noble, reveal his inner conflict and inability to see the larger picture. Verse essence: Arjuna rationalizes his unwillingness to fight by invoking respect for elders and the sin of killing them. Chapter 2, Verses 6-7: Arjuna admits confusion about his duty and asks Krishna for guidance, establishing a guru-student relationship. This marks a crucial turning point in the dialogue, as Arjuna recognizes his limitations and seeks Krishna's wisdom. It reflects the seeker's journey from confusion to seeking true knowledge and fulfillment beyond security, pleasures, and dharma. Verse essence: Arjuna acknowledges his confusion and submits himself as Krishna's student, seeking guidance for ultimate good. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
11. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – Chapter 2, Verse 8-10 (Resolving Inner Conflicts) 1:26:54

14 weeks тому1:26:54

1:26:54

Session focuses on one's struggle to determine the right course of action. Arjuna is depicted as being in a state of emotional turmoil, unable to compose himself and seeking Krishna's guidance. Krishna emphasizes importance of faith, understanding one's duties, and the pursuit of Moksha (liberation). Feedback from results of your actions and from others responses allows you to further refine the quality of your actions. Session also speaks of maintaining balance in life, addressing unresolved emotions, and the impact of likes and dislikes, holding you hostage. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
12. Bhagavad Gita Online Course – CH 2, Verse 11-13 (Nature of Atma, Self) 1:25:09

14 weeks тому1:25:09

1:25:09

Krishna introduces distinction between the wise (panditāḥ) and the unwise. He places Arjuna in the latter category due to his grief, but acknowledges his openness to wisdom. Krishna then delves into the eternal nature of Atma (self), contrasting it with the temporary body-mind complex. He presents a methodology distinguishing between incidental attributes (tatastha-lakshana) and intrinsic nature (svarupa-lakshana). This leads to the concept of the wise person as one who recognizes Atma as the constant and unchanging observer of changing experiences, unlike the unwise who identify solely with the body-mind conditions. Intrinsic nature of Self (Atma) is Existence (sat) which is of nature of Awareness (cit). Finally, Krishna introduces the concept of jiva, explaining its journey through various bodies and life stages across multiple incarnations, further emphasizing the transient nature of physical existence. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
13. Nature of Self (Atma) & Meaning of Sat-Cit (Existence-Awareness) – BG 2.12 1:31:00

14 weeks тому1:31:00

1:31:00

Lesson delves into the fundamental human search for lasting happiness and fulfillment, highlighting the challenges of finding contentment in a changing world. There are three core human needs: (a) freedom from time-bound existence, (b) freedom from ignorance, and (c) freedom from smallness. It explains why conventional pursuits fail to provide lasting satisfaction, using examples to illustrate the zero-sum nature of situational happiness. A prakriya (method) is introduced to distinguish between incidental and intrinsic attributes of the self. Finally, we see the intrinsic nature of the self (atman) is Sat-cit (Existence-Awareness), comparing it metaphorically to light on a stage which illumines everything without getting involved in what it lights up. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
14. I AM Self-Enquiry, Never a Time When You Were Born nor Will You Die – BG CH2.12 1:34:09

14 weeks тому1:34:09

1:34:09

Krishna explains consciousness continues eternally, even after the body's demise. Two metaphors used to illustrate this concept: (a) The wave-water metaphor demonstrates how shifting identity from the temporary wave to the eternal water solves existential dilemmas. It emphasizes that external change is unnecessary; only a shift in understanding is required. And (b) The cup-space metaphor likens Atma to space, showing its limitless and formless nature. It explains how Atma seems confined to a single body but is, in reality, everywhere and indivisible. See notes for this session at: https://www.yesvedanta.com/bg2/…

1
15. Existence-Awareness Relationship to Jiva, Subtle & Causal Body – BG CH2.13 1:23:42

14 weeks тому1:23:42