The Bhagavad Gita and the Battlefield of Existence

From a satsang with Pt. Umadutt Maharaj, Spiritual Leader, SWAHA Bhakti Jyot Mandali and Pt. Agnishwar Maharaj

In the midst of the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where the impending war looms large, a profound scene unfolds, marking the commencement of the Bhagavad Gita. As soldiers from both the Kauravas and the Pandavas stand poised for battle, Arjun, overwhelmed by the sight of his kith and kin on both sides, turns to his charioteer, none other than the divine Shree Krishna, for solace. Thus begins the eternal dialogue that has resonated through the ages.

In the poignant opening verse, Arjun, despondent and faint-hearted, seeks refuge in the Lord, grappling with the moral dilemma of engaging in a battle that pits family against family. Arjun expresses his profound reluctance to partake in a bloodstained victory over his near and dear ones.

It is at this pivotal moment, as Arjun faces the depths of his inner turmoil, that the Bhagavad Gita unfolds. The Lord, through the words of Shree Krishna, embarks on the task of enlightening Arjun, lifting the veil of ignorance that clouds his vision. Arjun’s dejection becomes the canvas upon which the profound teachings of the Gita are painted.

Krishna Bhagwan imparts eternal wisdom, reassuring Arjun that the soul is eternal and indestructible, transcending the temporary nature of the body. Like clothes cast off and new ones worn, the soul transitions from one body to another. In the thread of existence, the truth provides unwavering support, much like a thread between the beads of a beautiful mala.

The Bhagavad Gita, thus initiated in the heart of the battlefield before the war has even begun, becomes a beacon of enlightenment for all of humanity. Arjun’s initial dejection transforms into a receptacle for profound teachings, unravelling the nature of the eternal soul and the impermanence of the physical body.

The power, importance and glory of the Bhagavad Gita are ineffable. Divine words emanating from the lips of the God himself, its infinite glory transcends even the comprehension of celestial beings. Described as the supreme spiritual mystery, the Gita encapsulates the essence of the four Vedas, its simple yet profound style inviting seekers into the depths of spiritual understanding.

The Gita stands as a storehouse of all scriptural knowledge, an eternal guide to those who embark on the journey of self-realisation. It surpasses the sanctity of sacred rivers and even the revered Gayatri mantra, becoming a transformative force that not only liberates the seeker but empowers them to liberate others.

The scripture, having emerged directly from the lotus-like lips of Lord Vishnu, is hailed by the Divine sage Ved Vyas as the epitome of all scriptures. Its teachings, when studied, recited, and assimilated properly, offer the promise of liberation. The one who shapes their life according to its teachings becomes an embodiment of the Gita, radiating its essence in every aspect of existence.

As we delve into the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita, we embark on a journey that transcends time, unveiling the profound truths that guide us through the battlefield of existence, offering an eternal light that dispels the shadows of ignorance.