BHagavad Geeta Part 1

Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 50

i

Preface

When I first read the Bhagavad-gita, it appeared to me that all the purports are just a
repe on of the same facts again and again and the transla ons would not appeal to me at
all. In fact, for several years I could never go beyond the second chapter; as is the realiza on
shared by many devotees.

It appears that it takes a certain level of purifica on in the associa on of devotees before
one can start understanding the Holy scriptures and develop a taste for studying Them. It

developing some understanding of Bhagavad-gita. I would like to offer my deepest hear elt
gra tude to His Grace Bhurijana Prabhu for presen ng such wonderful and lucid
explana ons .

A er repeated reading of the Bhagavad-gita I no ced how Srila Prabhupada brought out a

instruc ons. At this me I began extrac ng points from the purports which throw light on
the individual points of the transla on. I soon discovered that the purports were not certain
vague presenta ons or repe ons of the same facts but rather each purport perfectly links
and expands on all the points of the respec ve transla on.

With this discovery I started studying Bhagavad-gita with a deeper interest and the notes
are presented herewith. They were originally made for my personal use while teaching
Bhak Sastri courses at Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Mandir. At the request of many devotees we
decided to compile these notes in its current format. These notes have been developed
based on my understanding and study of the Bhak vedanta purports, in conjunc on with
a Prabhu, the VTE notes and the North American VIHE
notes.

It is a small addi on to an already available variety of study notes on the Bhagavad-gita.


They are meant as a supplement to enhance own sastric study and should not be used
independently of the Bhagavad-gita As It Is. I have tried my best to keep intact the
philosophical integrity, but as this is my first a empt to present my personal notes for
others usage, please excuse any shortcomings.

Gauranga Priya Dasa

ii
Acknowledgements

I would like to express my hear ul gra tude to the following devotees who have assisted in
the complia on of these notes.

First and foremost I would like to offer my gra tude to Suman Sankar who readily agreed to
help me in compiling these notes. He offered his valuable me and energy, sacrificing his
personal interests and using the best of his technical skills to type and edit all of my hand
wri en notes. He endured hours of effort in making repeated changes while encouraging
me at every step.

Also I would like to offer gra tude to Laxminarayan, Avataar Lila dasa, Vasudeva Krishna
dasa, and Mohan Vilas dasa who helped in various ways in typing and prin ng the material.
A special thanks to the Brahmachari trainees 2008/9 who enthusas cally sat through all my
presenta ons on Bhagavad-gita and encouraged me by ac ve par cipa on and valuable
feedbacks on how to improve my presenta on.

A brief guide to the notes


These notes are presented under the following headings:

1. Chapter Connec ons


Every chapter, a er Chapter 1,
chapter.

2. Chapter Breakdown
Each chapter is
helps to understand the major themes covered in each chapter and to get an overview
of the chapter at a glance.

3. Prac cal Applica on


Almost every sec on begins with a Prac cal Applica on box which offers prac cal
relevance in our lives based on the theme discussed in that sec on. Some individual
texts where deemed appropriate also have their own Prac cal Applica on boxes. When
prac cal applica on statements are extracted from the Purport, it is included inside the
Focus of Learning sec on for that purport. Please note that the prac cal applica on
points are not taken from the transla ons or purports and have very li le relevance for
the Bhak -sastri exams.

iii
4. Verses

4.1 Themes
Each verse has a theme which presents the essen al subject ma er of the transla on. It
may also include a breakdown of the transla on into important points.

4.2 Common Themes


In cases where we have combined themes of several verses we have placed them under

4.3 Focus of Learning


This sec on presents in point form the key concepts, defini ons, arguments &
refuta ons, analogies and various facts & references of the points in each purport. It
aims to clearly present the purports in light of the points of the transla ons. At
instances where the Focus of Learning box is not present, we have included the points
of the purport under the Theme.

5. Link between verses


Links between verses are also provided to assist in understanding the flow from verse to

6. Summarized Themes
Special summaries have been provided to help in assimila ng the major themes of the
chapter. These major themes convey important subjects for discussion. They are
presented in the form of tables, diagrams or do ed boxes

7. Usage for exam


These notes can be valuable for those preparing for the Bhak -sastri exam. The most
important points to focus on from the exam point of view are the Themes and the
Summarized Themes. Therea er one can focus on points given in the Focus of Learning
(Purport) boxes.

8. Lead words and headings


Lead words are given at the beginning of many points to make the flow of understanding
and memoriza on easier. They are mainly based on the lines of the purport. Some mes,
however, I have also provided my own lead words to make the flow easier to
understand.

9. Forma ng of the notes


Throughout the notes we have used forma ng conven ons to highlight important
points. Bold is generally used for headings and main points. Underlining for subpoints
and important words. Italics for sanskrit words. And single and double quotes to
highlight specific phrases or words extracted from the transla ons and purports.

iv
10. About chapter wise appendices
Every chapter is provided with an appendix at the end which provides additional
information on the verses marked with an asterisk(*). In order to preserve the basic
flow of verses and to make the notes easy to understand we have not included
certain sections of “Surrender Unto Me” in the main part of the chapter notes.
These sections contain the realizations of H.G.Bhurijana Prabhu and his references
to the commentaries of Srila Vishwanath Chakravarty Thakur and Srila Baladeva
Vidyabhushan, so as to give a deeper understanding of the subject and also help the
preachers who intend to use this book.

v
Bhagavad-gita Notes 1
Chapter 1

CHAPTER 1
OBSERVING THE ARMIES ON THE BATTLEFIELD OF KURUKSHETRA
COMMON THEME: The very beginning of Bhagavad-gita, the first chapter, is more or less an introduction to
the rest of the book.
BREAKDOWN OF CHAPTER 1

SECTION I (1.1 1.27)


INTRODUCTION

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF SECTION I


Chapter one repeatedly presents the following 2 themes:
1. The
regardless of the material odds
2. The Lord as an in mate servant The Bhagavad-gita introduces Krishna, the Supreme Personality
of Godhead, as the intimate servant of His devotees. (e.g.

Page 1 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 2
Chapter 1

SUBSECTION A PREPARATIONS FOR WAR (1.1 1.11)

Text 1.1
THEME: Dhrtarashtra inquires from Sanjaya
my sons and the sons of Pandu assembled in the place of pilgrimage (Dharma-ksetra) at
Kuruksetra, desiring to fig

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 1.1

(a) Bhagavad-gita is the perfect theis c science because the Supreme Personality of Godhead
personally spoke it
(b) How to study Bhagavad-gita (Srila Prabhupada quotes this based on Gita-mahatmaya):
Scrutinizingly
With the help of devotees of Sri Krishna
Without personally motivated interpretations
In the line of disciplic succession
(c) Example of clear understanding of Bhagavad-gita It is given in the Gita itself, in the way the
teaching is understood by Arjuna, who heard the Gita directly from the Lord
(d) Benefits of such study one surpasses all studies of Vedic wisdom and all scriptures of the world
(e) Specific standard of Bhagavad-gita It contains all that is contained in other scriptures, but also
that which is not to be found elsewhere
(f) Dhrtarashtra inquiry reveals
1. Par al to his own sons Dhrtarashtra refers to which shows his
specific position in relation to his nephews, the Pandavas
2. Dharma- Kuru- Their importance is as
follows:
Kuru-kshetra is a sacred place of pilgrimage from immemorial time of the Vedic age
Kuru-kshetra is a holy place and a place of worship even for heavenly denizens
The Supreme Personality of Godhead is personally present on the Pandavas side
Pandavas are virtuous therefore the holy place may influence them
Dhrtarashtra is fearful about the holy influences on the fate of the battle because:
o It may influence his own sons to compromise, or
o He hoped that under the holy influence, the Pandavas may renounce their
claim, to avoid bloodshed
Analogy: Paddy field (Kshetra) unnecessary weeds taken out, similarly in religious
Kuru-kshetra
plants like Dhrtarashtra and his son Duryodhana and others would be wiped out

Page 2 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 3
Chapter 1

Texts 1.2 1.11


COMMON THEME: ac ons are described They reveal his diplomacy and inner fear by the
following indications:
1. Duryodhana although men oned as king, goes to the commander on account of seriousness of
situation quite fit to be a politician (1.2)
2. (of imparting military secrets to son of Drupada, Dhrstadyumna who was
born to kill Dronacharya) to make him alert and uncompromising and warns that leniency would lead to
defeat (1.3*)
3. Men ons great heros equal to Bhima and Arjuna (1.4*)
Why he compares them to Bhima and Arjuna
o Because he knew the strength of Bhima and Arjuna
Why he mentions other heros
o Because they were great stumbling blocks on the path of victory as each and every one of
them was as formidable and Bhima and Arjuna
4. (like Jayadratha, Krtavarma, Salya) (1.9)
5. Praises Bhisma He was confident of full support of Bhismadeva and Dronacarya because:
They did not protect Draupadi when she was insulted
o Although Bhisma and Drona have affection for Pandavas and might become lenient, he
hoped that they will give up all affection now (1.11)
6. Asks for everyone support for Bhisma (1.11) because
Bhismadeva was undoubtedly the great hero, but he was an old man and the enemy might take
advantage of his full engagement on one side
He wanted everyone to feel important

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.2 1.11

PLEASE NOTE: Some points of these purports are covered under the main theme above

(a)
Because Dhrtarashtra was blind from birth and also bereft of spiritual vision and he knew
that his sons were equally blind in the matter of religion
And Dhrtarashtra was afraid that under the influence of the place of pilgrimage, his sons
may make some compromise
(b) Study names of warriors on both sides (1.4 1.9)
(c) Duryodhana compared Bhisma (more experienced general) to Bhima (less experienced general)
(1.10*)
Because Duryodhana knew if he should die at all he would be killed by Bhima and was
therefore always envious of Bhima
Bhima is like a fig in the presence of Bhisma
(d) What made Duryodhana confident of victory (1.7 1.11)
Above mentioned strength of his friends (1.7 1.9)
Presence of Bhisma, a far superior General than Bhima He clearly felt that victory of Kurus
dependent on the presence of Bhismadeva (1.11)

insulting episode (1.11 purport)

Page 3 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 4
Chapter 1

SUBSECTION B SIGNS OF VICTORY OF PANDAVAS (1.12* 1.20)

COMMON THEME: Sanjaya tac ully informed Dhrtarashtra about his hopeless plans to win by giving the
following indications and signs:

SIGNS OF VICTORY OF PANDAVAS (9 points)


1. Krishna confirms victory
Supreme Personality of Godhead is the charioteer (1.14) -putranam

Krishna as Hrsikesha directly controls the senses of a pure devotee


2. Goddess of fortune
Whenever and wherever the Lord is present, the goddess of fortune is also there
She never lives without her husband; therefore all fortune is guaranteed (1.14)
3. Venue
Kurukshetra is a holy place (1.1)
4.
Hanumanji also helped Lord Rama in gaining victory (1.20)
5. Symbol of Vishnu
Conchshell is a symbol of Vishnu (1.12* & 1.14)
This is indirectly indicated by Bhisma and Pandavas conchshells
6. Transcendental conchshells
divya (transcendental) (1.14)
7. Duryodhana (1.12*)
8. Chariot given to Arjuna
It was capable of conquering all directions (1.14)
9. Sha ering of hearts
Conchshells of Pandavas shattered Kauravas hearts (1.19)
Pandavas hearts not shattered because of confidence in Krishna

Text 1.12*
THEME: Bhis conchshell blown

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 1.12*

(a) Bhisma indicates the following things to Duryodhana by his conchshell:


Blown out of natural compassion for grandson, Duryodhana
To cheer the fearful heart of Duryodhana
Befitting his position as lion
To assure that no pains would be spared in his duty to fight
Indirectly by the symbolism of conchshell, he informed his depressed grandson that he has
no chance of victory, because the Supreme Lord Krishna was on the other side.

Page 4 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 5
Chapter 1

Texts 1.13 1.18


COMMON THEME: All Pandavas blew conchshells and all other instruments that made a tumultuous sound
NAMES OF DIFFERENT CONCHSHELLS:
S. No Warriors Conchshell
1. Krishna Panchajanya
2. Arjuna Devadatta
3. Yudhishtara Anantavijaya
4. Bhima Paundra
5. Nakula Sughosa
6. Sahadeva Manipushpaka

PLEASE NOTE: Text 1.13 has no purport. Text 1.14 purport is covered under the main theme Signs of Victory of
above. Purports for Texts 1.15 to 1.18 are presented in the

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 1.15*

(a) Message announced by conchshells Blowing of conchshells announced the message that
Kauravas were predestined to lose the battle
(b) Importance of names
Hrsikesha
o Owner of all senses / senses of living entities are part and parcels of His senses
Impersonalists cannot account for the senses of the living entities and they are
always anxious to describe the living entities as sense-less or impersonal
o Lord as Paramatma directs the senses according to the surrender of the living entity
o Directly controls transcendental senses of a pure devotee like Arjuna
Govinda Pleasure-giver to cows and senses
Dhananjaya Arjuna helped elder brother to fetch wealth for different sacrifices
Vrkodara Eat as voraciously as he could do herculean tasks (Bhima)
Few other names explained Madhusudana / Vasudeva / Devaki-nandana / Yasoda-
nandana / Partha-sarthy (Read 1.15 purport)

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.16 1.18

(a) Sanjaya very tac ully informed King Dhrtarashtra of the following points through all the above
men oned verses:
His unwise policy of deceiving the sons of Pandu and endeavoring to enthrone his own sons
was not very laudable
All the signs indicate that the whole Kuru dynasty would be killed
From the grandsire Bhisma to the grandson Abhimanyu, and all the kings of all states were
doomed
And Dhrtarashtra was the cause of the whole catastrophe because he encouraged the policy
followed by his sons

Page 5 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 6
Chapter 1

Text 1.19
THEME: Sha ering of the hearts Conchshells of Pandavas shattered the heart of the sons of Dhrtarashtara

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 1.19

(a) There is no heartbreaking on the side of the Pandavas


Because of and their
PRACTICAL APPLICATION This shows that one who takes shelter of the Supreme Lord has
nothing to fear even in the midst of the greatest calamity (1.19 purport)

Text 1.20*
THEME: Arjuna prepared to shoot arrows and after looking at the sons of Dhrtarashtara, spoke to Krishna
The purport of this verse describes all the auspicious conditions that were arranged by the Lord for His
eternal devotee, which gives complete assurance of victory

PLEASE NOTE: Points of this purport (1.20) are covered above under Subsec on B - M

SUBSECTION C KRISHNA AS BHAKTA-VATSALA (1.21 1.27)

Texts 1.21* 1.23


COMMON THEME: Arjuna requests the infallible Lord to draw his chariot in the middle:
To see who were the leading men present with a desire to fight, to please evil-minded son of
Dhrtarashtra

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.21 1.23

(a) Meaning of infallible, addressed so because:


The Lord never fails in affection for His devotees thus engaged in the service of His friend,
out of His causeless mercy
Did not hesitate to carry out the order of Arjuna as his charioteer
Still His supreme position as Hrsikesa, the Lord of senses was unchallenged
(b) Rela onship between Lord and devotee is sweet and transcendental A devotee is always eager
to serve the Lord and Lord obtains transcendental pleasure in receiving the orders of His pure
devotees, although He is always the infallible, Supreme master
(c) Why Arjuna asked to move the chariot amidst the armies because:
Arjuna was forced to fight against his wish (Because of obstinacy of Duryodhana)
Anxious - To see who were the leading men present with a desire to fight, to please
Duryodhana (They all must be birds of the same feather)
To see how much they were bent upon fighting
To estimate the strength which he had to face, although confident of victory because of
Krishna sitting on his side
But he had no intention of peace-making at this moment

Page 6 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 7
Chapter 1

Text 1.24
THEME: Krishna draws the chariot Krishna (Hrsikesa) draws the chariot on request of Arjuna (Gudakesh) in
the midst of the armies of both parties

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 1.24

(a) Arjuna as Gudakesh one who conquers sleep


Gudaka means sleep; sleep also means ignorance
Arjuna conquered sleep & ignorance because of friendship with Krishna
Nature of the devotee
o Cannot forget Krishna even for a moment (Samadhi); even while walking or asleep
condition
o Devotee conquers sleep and ignorance; because of constant Krishna consciousness.
(This is called Samadhi)
(b) Krishna as Hrsikesa As director of mind and senses, He could understand in
placing the chariot in the midst of the armies

Text 1.25*
THEME: Lord places the chariot in front of Bhisma, Drona etc.

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 1.25

(a) Lord as Hrsikesa being the Supersoul of all


living entities
(b) Arjuna re
He became charioteer because Arjuna is son of aunt (Queen Kunti)

want to stop a
Krishna does not expect such cowardly action from the son of his aunt
Mood of friendly joking expressed here.

Texts 1.26 1.27


COMMON THEME: Arjuna sees all the rela ves assembled on both the sides and thus overwhelmed with
compassion, he starts speaking

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.26 1.27

(a) Different grades of rela ves men oned


Grandfathers Bhisma and Somadatta; temporaries like Bhurisrava
Teachers like Dronacharya and Krpacharya; Maternal uncles like Salva and Sakuni
Brothers like Duryodhana; Sons like Laksma
Friends like Asvatthama; Well-wishers like Krtavarma etc.
The armies containing many of his friends

Page 7 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 8
Chapter 1

SECTION II (1.28 1.46)


FIVE ARGUMENTS NOT TO FIGHT

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF SECTION II


Identification with, and attachment to the body disables one from executing his religious duties,

o It -interest
o The result of such vision is fear, loss of composure, indecision, and confusion of moral codes

TS
S.No. Verse(s) Lord in verse(s)
1. Compassion 1.28 1.30 2.11 2.30
2. Loss of enjoyment 1.31 1.35 2.31 2.32
3. Fear of sinful reactions 1.36 1.38 2.33 2.37
4. Destruction of family traditions 1.37 1.43 2.45 2.46 & 3.24
5. Indecision 2.6

COMPASSION (1.28 1.30)

REFUTATION:
Lord Krishna refutes this argument in Texts 2.11 2.30

Texts 1.28 1.30


COMMON THEME: Signs of compassion (9 points)
S.No Body part Sign
1. Limbs Quivering
2. Mouth Drying up
3. Whole body Trembling
4. Hair Standing on end
5. Hands Gandiva bow slipping
6. Skin Burning
7. Legs Unable to stand any longer due to impatience
8. Forgetting myself and mind reeling Due to weakness of the heart
9. Sees only causes of misfortune

Page 8 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 9
Chapter 1

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.28 1.30

(a) Causes of compassion different viewpoints


Compassion due to so heartedness of a pure devotee (1.28) Ref. SB 5.18.12
o By unflinching devotion unto Supreme Lord all good qualities manifest
o Non-devotee in contrast He may be advanced by education & culture, but lacks
godly qualities; hovering on mental plane, he is certain to be attracted by glaring
energy
o What indicates his soft-heartedness
False compassion due to material fear, namely loss of life Indicates material conception
of life (1.29 1.30)
o Impatience Due to this impatience Arjuna was unable to stay on the battlefield
o Weakness of mind Thus he was forgetting himself
o Excessive attachment to material things This puts a man in such a bewildered
condition
(b) Two kinds of trembling / Standing of hairs (1.29)
Great spiritual ecstasy
Great fear under material condition
o Trembling mentioned in 1.29 is due to material fear as evident from the symptoms
from 1.29, slipping of Gandiva and burning skin
(c) Cause of fearfulness Ref. SB 11.2.37
Such fearfulness and loss of equilibrium takes place in a person too affected by material
conditions
Prac cal applica on Do not be disturbed by material temporary changes because that is
the nature of the material world
(d) Importance of Nimi ani-viparitani To see only causes of misfortune
Only pain and frustra on
o To see only painful reverses
o Sees only frustration in expectations
No happiness Not to be happy even by victory, it would only give lamentation
(e) Causes of such frustra ons in life
Misdirected interest
Ignorance of real self-interest Real self-
o Conditional nature is to forget this real self interest this is the cause of material pain
o Is Arjuna a conditioned soul Arjuna is showing ignorance of his real self-interest by

LOSS OF ENJOYMENT (1.31 1.35)

REFUTATION:
Lord Krishna refutes this argument in Texts 2.31 2.32

Text 1.31
THEME: Arjuna in a blind concep on of life cannot see the right way to achieve even the material
happiness. He argues that fighting will not offer him any enjoyment, even by victory

Page 9 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 10
Chapter 1

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 1.31

(a) Theme of this purport Blind conception of life exhibited


Without ted by bodily
relationships, hoping to be happy in such conditions
One even forgets the causes of material happiness
(b)
Refuses to fight He appears to have even forgotten the moral codes of a ksatriya
o Moral code of a ksatriya For Arjuna kingdom is a must for his subsistence because
ksatriyas cannot engage themselves in any other occupation
o Two kinds of men enter the sun globe:
Ksatriya
order
The person in the renounced order of life who is absolutely devoted to spiritual
culture

o He is reluctant to kill his enemies, what to speak of his relatives He thinks that by
killing them there would be no happiness in his lives
Analogy: Just like a person who does not feel hunger is not inclined to cook
o He considers himself fit to go to the forest to live a secluded life of frustration
He wants to escape because his sole opportunity in gaining a kingdom lies in
fighting with his cousins and brothers which he does not like to do

Texts 1.32 1.35


COMMON THEME: Arjuna exhibits . He feels that fighting will not give him
any enjoyment even if he is victorious because:
He wants to show off his opulence and share with the society after victory
Also if there is any need to kill his relatives, let Krishna kill them

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.32 1.35

(a)
Krishna is the object of all pleasures for the cows and the senses
What Arjuna indicates by addressing Krishna
o
o Material understanding of God Materially everyone wants to satisfy his senses and
wants God to be his order supplier for such satisfaction
What is the right concep on of
o Lord will satisfy the senses of the living entities as much as they deserve, but not to
the extent they may covet
o Govinda is not meant for satisfying our senses
o Right conception When one tries to satisfy the senses o

entities are satisfied

Page 10 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 11
Chapter 1

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.32 1.35


Srila Prabhupada now compares typical calcula on of material life and transcendental life:
(b) Typical calcula on of material life
Show off tendency Everyone wants to show off his opulence to friends and relatives, but
Arjuna fears that all of them will be killed on the battlefield
To be so- Arjuna did not want to kill his relatives, and even if there was
any need to kill them,he desires that Krishna kill them and he should not be involved
(c) Transcendental life
Transcendental life
He can, Lord willing, accept all kinds of opulences for the service of the Lord
o He wants Arjuna to fight
o Why Lord is so determined to fight He can excuse a person on His own account, but
he excuses no-one who has done harm to his devotees
o By the
If the Lord is not willing, he should not accept a farthing (One should give up all selfish likes
and dislikes)
o exhibit his own desires
o

due to his natural compassion for them


As a natural devotee Arjuna did not like to retaliate against his miscreant
cousins and brothers

FEAR OF SINFUL REACTIONS (1.36 1.38)


REFUTATION:
Lord Krishna refutes this argument in Texts 2.33 2.37

Texts 1.36* 1.38


COMMON THEME: Arjuna argues that figh ng will incur sinful reac ons because of the unique position of
the aggressors as seniors and relatives

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.36 1.38


(a) Six kinds of aggressors to be killed (based on grounds of poli cs and sociology Artha-sastra)
Killing them does not incur any sin.
1. A Poison-giver; 2. One who sets fire to the house; 3. One who attacks with deadly weapons
4. One who plunders riches; ; 6. One who kidnaps a wife
(b) Why Arjuna favors forgiveness (based on the grounds of religion and saintly behavior Dharma-
sastra)
Because of the unique position of these aggressors as seniors and relatives
Forgiveness on account of saintliness
Arjuna considers why to risk life and eternal salvation for temporary pleasures and kingdom

Page 11 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 12
Chapter 1

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.36 1.38


(c) Correct understanding about forgiveness / saintliness
Saintliness is not justified for a ksatriya
Compared to - Lord Rama gave sufficient lessons to Ravana who was an

(d) Arjuna addr


Krishna is the husband of the Goddess of fortune
misfortune
(e) Saintliness of Arjuna
(1.37 1.38)
Obligation (To not refuse when challenged to battle or gamble) is binding when the effect is
good, not otherwise
Therefore Arjuna considered that he is not obliged to fight

DESTRUCTION OF FAMILY TRADITIONS (1.39 1.43)


REFUTATION:
Lord Krishna refutes this argument in Texts 2.45, 2.46 & 3.24
Texts 1.39 1.43
COMMON THEME: Figh ng will cause family destruc on in the following 6-step sequence:
1. Death of Elderly (1.39)
Fighting destroys the whole dynasty
2. Family Tradi ons Stop: Irreligion increases (1.39)
With the destruction of dynasty, the entire family tradition is vanquished, and thus the rest of the
family becomes involved in irreligion
3. Women polluted (1.40)
When irreligion is prominent, the women in the family become polluted
Chana
Why women need special protection Because they are
o Less intelligent
o Not trustworthy
o Prone to degradation
How they are protected By engaging in religious principles, either under father, husband or son
If they are not protected, it leads to adultery and varna-sankara
4. Varna-sankara (unwanted progeny) (1.40*)
From degradation of woman comes unwanted progeny
Varna-sankara has three effects
o Risk of war and pestilence
o Hellish life
For the whole family Ancestors falldown because pinda-dana stops
For those who destroy family
o All community projects and family welfare acts stop
5. Hellish life for family and destroyers of family (1.41*)
6. Culture is destroyed Community projects and family welfare acts stop (1.42)

Page 12 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 13
Chapter 1

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 1.39 1.43

PLEASE NOTE: Some points of the -


theme above

(a) Varnashrama Ins tu on (1.39 purport) Principles of religious traditions to help members of
family grow and attain spiritual values
(b) Role of elders (1.39 purport)
Responsible for maintaining purificatory samskaras (birth to death)
Helping younger generation on the path of salvation
(c) Importance of good popula on (1.40 purport) It is the basic principle for peace, prosperity and
spiritual progress in life
(d) What good popula on depends on (1.40 purport) Chastity and faithfulness of womanhood
(e) Philosophy of Pinda-Dan (1.41 purport)
Based on rules and regulations of fruitive acts
What it is To offer periodical food and water to forefathers
Right process worship of Vishnu done / remnants offered to forefathers
Principle: To release them from many sinful reactions / ghostly existence etc.
Who is not obliged for this One in devotional life
Why devotees are not obliged Because devotional service relieves hundreds and
thousands of forefathers from all misery
(f) Community projects and family welfare acts Importance (1.42 purport)
They are set forth by Varnashrama / Sanatana-dharma
Sets duties for four orders of society
Purpose To help attain ultimate salvation
Result of breaking
o Chaos in society
o People forget ultimate aim of life Vishnu
(g) Ways of receiving real knowledge (1.43 purport) Disciplic succession
Arjuna based his arguments not on personal experience, but on what he has heard from
authorities
(h) Principle of (1.43 purport) A system in the varnashrama system by which before
death one has to undergo the process of atonement for his sinful activities
Without doing so, one surely will be transferred to the hellish planets to undergo miserable
lives

INDECISION

FIFTH ARGUMENT COVERED IN CHAPTER 2:


Please refer to Text 2.6

Page 13 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 14
Chapter 1

Texts 1.44 1.46*


COMMON THEME: Conclusion Arjuna decides not to fight and casts aside his bow and arrows

PLEASE NOTE: Purports for these verses are covered in the


1A sec on below.

SUMMARISED THEME 1A
1.46)

(a) Softheartedness (1.28)


(b) Does not want to kill even for exchange of three worlds (1.35)
(c) Ready to forgive any aggressors (1.36)
(d) Considers evil consequences even at the risk of refusing obligation to fight (1.37 1.38)
(e) Conscious of obligations to protect family traditions and morals (1.39 1.44)

Arjuna being saintly is conscious of moral principles


on selfish motives (1.44)
(f) Ready to be killed unarmed, but not retaliate (1.45)
Custom according to Ksatriya fighting principles unarmed and unwilling foe should not be
attacked
These symptoms are due to softheartedness resulting from being a great devotee
(g) Kept his bow down (even broke his vow of not keeping the bow once lifted) (1.46)

Conclusion: Such a kind and so hearted person is fit to receive self-knowledge (1.46 purport)

END OF CHAPTER 1

Page 14 of 14
Bhagavad-gita Notes 1
Chapter 2

CHAPTER 2
CONTENTS OF GITA SUMMARIZED

Connec on between Chapter 1 and Chapter 2


First Arjuna presents more doubts and reasons to avoid fighting
Then Arjuna gets completely confused His relationship with Krishna changes from friend to Guru-
Disciple

BREAKDOWN OF CHAPTER 2

SECTION I (2.1 2.10)


further reasons for not fighting
Surrenders to Krishna

SECTION II (2.11 2.30) JNANA FIGHT!


There is no death for the soul. The body can never be saved

SECTION III (2.31 2.38) KARMA KANDA FIGHT!


Karma-kanda consciousness By performing prescribed duties, gain material enjoyment:
o Material gains (heaven or kingdom) from fighting
o Material losses (infamy and sin) from not fighting

SECTION IV (2.39 2.53) BUDDHI YOGA FIGHT!


FIGHT! But without any reaction Niskarma-karma-yoga
o One works (karma) with knowledge (jnana)
o Thus detached from the fruit of his work

SECTION V (2.54 2.72) STHITA PRAJNA / SAMADHI FIGHT!


Become fixed in Krishna Consciousness
o By working in Buddhi-yoga
Samadhi

Page 1 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 2
Chapter 2

SECTION I (2.1 2.10)

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF SECTION I


When one realizes that there is:
o No shelter in the material world
o Including the mind and intelligence
He will take full shelter of spiritual authority

Text 2.1*
THEME: Sanjaya describes that Krishna sees Arjuna lamenting like an ignorant man and responds

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.1

(a) Signs of ignorance of real self Material compassion, lamentation and tears
(b) Defini on of To lament for outward dress (gross body) or one who laments
unnecessarily
Analogy: ress of a drowning man
Similarly, a man fallen into the ocean of nescience cannot be saved simply by rescuing his
gross body
(c) vs Self-realisa on Compassion for the eternal soul is self-realisation
(d) Krishna as
Killer of Madhu demon
Arjuna requested Krishna to kill the demon of misunderstanding that had overtaken him in
the discharge of his duty
(e) Why Bhagavad-gita was spoken To dissipate the lamentation of the ignorant man
(f) Role of Chapter 2 in self-realiza on
Teaches Jnana Analytical study of material body and spirit soul by Supreme authority, Lord
Sri Krishna
Teaches Buddhi-yoga (path of activity) which involves:
o To work without attachment to fruitive results
o Fixed in the conception of the real self

Text 2.2 2.3*


COMMON THEME lamenta on Krishna condemns by following words:
Non-Aryan (2.2)
Kasmalam implies impurities (2.2)
Klaibyam implies impotent (2.3)
Hrdoya daurbalyam implies weakness of heart (2.3)

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF TEXTS 2.2 2.3


Finer sentiments like compassion, although noble, are worthless if applied in an ignorant way

Page 2 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 3
Chapter 2

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 2.2 2.3

(a) Importance of Krishna being referred to as Bhagavan (Ul mate feature of the Absolute Truth)
Three phases of Absolute Truth Brahman, Paramatma and Bhagavan (Ref. SB 1.2.11)
Bhaktas are the topmost transcendentalists because they have realized the Bhagavan
feature, the topmost feature of the Absolute Truth (Analogy of the Sun study purport)
(b) Defini on of Bhagavan by Parasara Muni All six opulences in full (Only Krishna can claim to
have all six in full)
(c) Suppor ng
Ref. Brahma Samhita Krishna as the source of all, The Supreme Personality of Godhead
Ref. Krishna as the source of all incarnations
(d) Defini on of Aryan Civilized class of men
One who knows the value of life
Have a civilization based on spiritual realisation
(e) Non-Aryans
Do not know:
o The aim of life is Vishnu
o What is liberation from material bondage
Their conception of life is:
o Led by the material conception of life
o Captivated by the external features of the material world
Example of Non-aryan act Arjuna, although being a ksatriya, is deviating from prescribed
duties by declining to fight
(f) Result of Non-Aryan act
Infamy
No progress to Higher planets
No spiritual progress
(g) Kasmalam (Impurities)
Krishna expresses surprise (Word because
o Supreme Personality of Godhead was personally present and thus such lamenation is
unexpected
o Arjuna born in Aryan family (a civilised class of men) Therefore he is not supposed
to lament in ignorance
(h) Klaibyam (Impotent) He is called so because:
As Son of Ksatriya (son of Prtha) , he is not expected to avoid fighting, otherwise he is acting
as an unworthy son
Arjuna was the most intimate friend of Krishna and Krishna was directly guiding him on the
chariot Thus he is not expected to withdraw from the battlefield
(i) Hrdoya Daurbalyam (Weakness of heart) Refers to false magnanimity shown to Bhisma and
Drona, which Arjuna uses as a justification point to avoid the battle
(j) Importance of Arjuna being called
This indicates son of ksatriya parents; Prtha is the name of his mother
also indicates that he has a blood relation with Krishna

Page 3 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 4
Chapter 2

Text 2.4*
THEME: Arjuna counter-argues with Krishna and tries to prove his strong heartedness by the following
arguments (Krishna had accused Arjuna of weak heartedness in Text 2.3)

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.4

d while speaking these verses:


(a) Superiors are always respectable Should never be fought back even if they attack
Respectable superiors should never be fought back
They are always worshipable
Srila Prabhupada says in the purport te that superiors are not to be

(b) Arjuna in a mood of challenging Krishna


Would Krishna counter-attack Urgasena (His own grandfather) or Sandipani Muni (His own
teacher)

Text 2.5*
THEME: Arjuna prefers begging rather than to live at the cost of great souls

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.5

(a) Dharma-sastra vs Artha-sastra Although Artha-sastra (Rules of politics and sociology)


recommends killing of such aggressors, Arjuna gives more weight to Dharma-sastra (religious
principles) which promotes forgiveness
(b) mmenda on on killing such teachers and relatives (As given in the purport)
A teacher is fit to be abandoned if he:
o Engages in abominable action
o Has lost his sense of discrimination e.g. Bhisma and Drona taking the side of
Dhuyodhana because of his financial assistance
But Arjuna still prefers forgiveness Because of the unique kind of aggressors i.e seniors
and relatives (teachers, grandfathers etc)

Text 2.6
INDECISION

THEME: Arjuna is confused whether to fight or not to fight


Arjuna is confused and indecisive based on the following aspects
If he fights:
o He may win Still he will not be able to enjoy without his relatives (1.31 1.35)
o He may not emerge victorious in spite of so much bloodshed No enjoyment
guaranteed
If he does not fight:
o Begging will be his only means of subsistence For a ksatriya it is difficult and
therefore no enjoyment

Page 4 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 5
Chapter 2

FIRST FOUR ARGUMENTS COVERED IN CHAPTER ONE:


first four arguments are covered in Texts 1.28 1.43

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF TEXTS 2.4 2.6


llustrates the result of selfish consciousness
Frustration and inability to reach sound conclusions

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.6

(a) following virtuous quali es:


He was a great devotee of the Lord
Highly enlightened
Complete control of mind and senses
Desire to live by begging a sign of detachment
(His spiritual master)
Conclusion: These qualities make him quite fit for liberation
(b) Qualifica ons for libera on Controlled senses, knowledge and devotion
Unless senses are controlled no chance of elevation to the platform of knowledge
Without knowledge and devotion, no chance of liberation

LINK BETWEEN TEXTS 2.6 & 2.7:


Perplexed yet eager for enlightenment, Arjuna recites the following verse

Texts 2.7* 2.9*


COMMON THEME: role as friend turns into guru

This theme develops in the following verses:


Krishna chastises Arjuna for misplaced compassion in Texts 2.2 2.3
Calls him Non-Aryan / Impotent / Weak-hearted
Arjuna expresses need to surrender (2.7)
Confusion about duty
Lost all composure because of miserly weakness
Reconfirms complete dependence and faith (2.8)
No other means to drive away grief
Any sastra or person cannot help
Even victory or opulence cannot dispel
(2.9)
Declared by Sanjaya to Dhrtarashtra

Text 2.7
THEME: Arjuna expresses need to surrender
Confused about duty
Lost all composure because of miserly weakness

Page 5 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 6
Chapter 2

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.7

(a) The purport (essence) of the verse -fide spiritual master (one in bona-fide
parampara) to come out of material perplexities and for proper guidance to execute the purpose

A person with a bona-fide spiritual master is supposed to know everything


Thus one should not remain in material perplexities but approach a spiritual master
(b) Analogy: Material perplexity and forest fire Both happen without desire and without being set
by anyone
(c) Defini on of Man in material perplexity One who does not understand the problems of life
Ref. Brhad Aranyaka Upanisad It defines such a perplexed person as a miser (krpana)
Definition of a M
o One who does not utilise the most valuable asset of a living entity human form to
solve all the problems of life
o One who wastes their time in material bodily conception by being overly affectionate
to family life, wife and children (same as animals)
o which refers to attachment to family life: wife, children
and other members. 2

o Quits life like cats and dogs, without understanding self-realisation


(d) Brahmana Intelligent and utilizes the human body to solve all problems of life
(Ref. Brhad Aranyaka Upanisad)
(e) Bhagavad-gita Arjuna vs Mundane
Scholar
Correct mood Arjuna stops friendship and surrenders to Krishna as the first disciple of
Bhagavad-gita
Incorrect mood Mundane scholar They say that there is no need to submit to Krishna
but to Unborn within Krishna Therefore he is called the greatest fool with respect to
understanding Bhagavad-gita

Text 2.8
THEME: Reconfirms complete dependence and faith
No other means to drive away grief
Any sastra or person cannot help
Even victory or opulence cannot dispel
Arjuna proclaims that even an unrivalled kingdom on earth or supremacy like demigods cannot
help him

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF TEXTS 2.7 2.9


One can surrender to spiritual master when he realizes:
He cannot independently solve material perplexities

Page 6 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 7
Chapter 2

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.8

(a) Academic knowledge, scholarship & posi on are useless in solving material perplexities or
problems of life
principles and moral codes failed to help him)
(b) Only Krishna or His representa ve as spiritual master can help
(c) Who is a bona-fide spiritual master? Definition and 2 references:
Definition:
o One who is one-hundred percent Krishna conscious
o One who can solve all problems of life
Supporting References:
o Ref. CC One who is the master of the science of Krishna is a real
spiritual master and not one decided by birth or social order
o Ref. Padma Purana Only a Vaishnava can become a bona-fide spiritual master
(d) Temporary nature of economic development and worldly supremacy Economic development
cannot solve the problems of material existence
Many opulent countries fail to get peace and cannot solve real problems of birth and death
This is s
o Who proclaims that even an unrivalled kingdom on earth or supremacy like demigods
cannot help him
o Also economical development and worldly supremacy can be finished at any time. E.g.
Many politicians fall down (Ref. Bg. 9.21
(e) Only way to real happiness Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam (Consult Krishna through His
representative)

Text 2.9
THEME: Arjuna refuses to fight Sanjaya reports that Arjuna honestly expresses his mind to his spiritual
master (Krishna)

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF TEXT 2.9


Only way to curb lamentation for good take shelter of Krishna like Arjuna
That is the way of Krishna Consciousness

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.9


(a) Parantapa Chas ser of Enemy
Sanjaya disappoints Dhrtarashtra by declaring Arjuna as competent to kill the enemies
Sanjaya informs Dhrtarashtra that Arjuna was temporarily overwhelmed but has now
surrendered unto Krishna and would soon fight.
3 effects of surrender which manifest in Arjuna:
1. Enlightenment
2. Freedom from false lamentation
3. Reinstatement in his own duty e.g. Arjuna would surely fight

Page 7 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 8
Chapter 2

Text 2.10*
THEME: Krishna starts speaking Sanjaya reports that Krishna smiling in the midst of both armies began to
speak

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.10


(a) Krishna accepts role as per devotees desire friend or guru, etc.; He always maintains supremacy
Because a friend had chosen to become a disciple
(b) The Bhagavad-gita is openly discussed between the two armies Therefore this knowledge is
not for any particular person, community or society, but for everyone
Friends and enemies are equally entitled to hear this message

SECTION II (2.11 2.30)


JNANA FIGHT! THERE IS NO DEATH FOR THE SOUL /
THE BODY CAN NEVER BE SAVED
REFUTATION OF FIRST ARGUMENT
1.30

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF SECTION II


The spirit soul is eternal and indestructible, while material nature is temporary
Because of this, one should not be bewildered by the inevitable destruction of the material body
Rather one should remain fixed in prescribed duties, which purify and allow one to realize the eternal
self

Text 2.11
THEME: Krishna chas ses Arjuna The truly wise do not mistake the body to be the self
Those who are truly wise lament neither for the living nor for the dead

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF 2.11


First step in teaching is to dismantle student s misconception which may require strong words

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.11


(a) Who is learned Supreme Personality of Godhead chastises Arjuna for posing as a learned man
Definition of Learned Man One who knows what is body and soul and does not lament
for any stage of the body Living or dead
(b) Defini on of Knowledge To know matter, soul and supreme controller of both
(c) Different levels of sastra Texts 2.11 2.30 establishes Jnana sastra (knowledge of body and

Sastra / Religious principles as higher than Artha-sastra / Politics or Sociology in Bg.1.36)


(d) Arjuna called foolish because intelligence is used without considering essential nature of the soul

LINK BETWEEN TEXTS 2.11 & 2.12: Text 2.11 serves as a prelude to Text 2.12, which will further establish
spiritual truth by refuting the bodily concept of life
Page 8 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 9
Chapter 2

SUMMARISED THEME 2A
REFUTATIONS USED BY KRISHNA IN TEXTS 2.12 2.30
MATERIAL COMPASSION

PLEASE NOTE: The refuta ons presented here are based on the commentaries of the acharyas as used in
d in the Sanskrit
verses or transla ons.

FIRST Krishna says: Individuality is never lost (2.12) All living entities are eternal and
continue their individuality in future without interruption Therefore
no lamenta on for death (2.12)

SECOND Arjuna may argue: Change of body is still a cause of lamenta on


Krishna refutes: Change of body is as natural as change of boyhood to youth to old-
age. Nobody laments for such a natural change (2.13)

THIRD Arjuna may argue: But we do lament for loss of youth to old-age
Krishna refutes: But Bhisma and Drona will get fresh bodies which can be heavenly
birth or spiritual bodies therefore no lamenta on (2.13)
(e.g. King Yayati traded his old age and got a fresh youthful body
that was the cause of rejoicing)

FOURTH Arjuna may think: But attachment to current body of relatives will still be a cause of
lamenta on on losing them
Krishna advises: No choice but to tolerate such non-permanent dualities (2.14)
They arise from sense perception

FIFTH Krishna establishes Soul is eternal / Body is temporary Implies Kauravas cannot escape
vision of seers of truth death even if Arjuna does not kill (body is sure to end 2.18)
and rebukes arjuna
(2.16 2.18)

SIXTH Arjuna may argue: Violence incurs sinful reaction


Krishna refutes: Violence under My direction does not incur any sinful reaction (2.21
purport)
SEVENTH Arjuna may argue: Bhisma and Drona will lose their present bodies which are sources of
Krishna refutes: enjoyment for them
Change of body is like change of dress They will get fresh bodies and
thus happiness (2.22)

EIGHTH 2.24)

NINTH One may think: There is no soul, the body is all in all
Krishna further Even if there is no soul, still there is no cause of lamenta on
establishes: for a loss of chemicals (2.26)

Page 9 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 10
Chapter 2

Text 2.12
THEME: We are all eternal individuals Therefore there is no cause of lamentation for change of bodies

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.12


(a) Suppor ng verse for ternal individuality : Ref. Katha Upanisad & Svetasvatara Nityo
Nityanam )
Supreme Personality of Godhead is the maintainer of innumerable living entities
How is He maintaining?
o In terms of different situations according to individual work and reaction of work
o Also by plenary portion, He is alive in the heart of all living entities
Visions of Saintly Persons They can see same
Supreme Lord within and without
(b) Refuta on of Mayavadi Theory The following points are refuted:
What is their theory?
o Individual soul is separated or broken from original consciousness by covering of
Maya or illusion
Refuta on But we know that the soul is unbreakable (Ref. Bg. 2.13 & 2.23)
o After liberation the soul merges or dissolves homogenously into impersonal Brahman
and lose individual existence
Refuta on But we know that the soul is insoluble and never dissolves (Ref.
Bg. 2.24)
Also refutes the following points
o Mayavadi may argue:
Refuta on Krishna clearly states individuality of the Lord and the living
entities
because Krishna cannot be subject to illusion)
o Mayavadi may argue:
Refuta on Then how can one distinguish
confirms His individuality in the past and also in the future. If Krishna is an
ordinary conditioned soul, born of four defects, then Bhagavad-gita loses all
value
o Plurality mentioned in this verse refers to body
Refuta on But Bodily conception condemned in the previous verse
Why would Lord place a conventional proposition on the body again
o
Refuta on: Then there is no need of teaching by the Lord
(c) Bhagavad-gita
(Ref. Bg. Chapter 4)
Who cannot understand Those who are envious of the Lord
(d) Failure of Mayavada
Analogy /Non- Bees licking the bottle of honey
Ref. Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu on Mayavada
o He forbids us to read the most misleading Mayavada presentations on Bhagavad-gita

LINK BETWEEN TEXTS 2.12 & 2.13: This basic understanding of the difference between the individual
soul and his temporary body is further stressed in the next verse
Page 10 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 11
Chapter 2

Text 2.13
THEME: A Dhira is not bewildered by change of bodies
Change of body th to old-

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.13


(a) This verse proves that there is no cause of lamenta on because:
Bhisma and Drona will get fresh bodies
Also being noble, they will get spiritual or at least heavenly bodies, which implies higher
elevation is guaranteed
(b) Defini on of One who has perfect knowledge of the constitution of the soul, Supersoul
and nature (Both material and spiritual)
Undisturbed by change of bodies (2.13)
Tolerates dualities (2.14)
Thus becomes eligible for libera on (2.15)
(c) Refuta on of Mayavadi Their theory of oneness of spirit soul cannot be entertained because
Spirit soul cannot be cut into pieces as fragmental portions
Our Philosophy
o Spirit Soul as eternal fragments They cannot be cut, if could be cut then that would

o Spirit Soul (Fallible) vs Krishna (Infallible) Fragmental portions exist eternally


(Sanatana) but are Ksara (Fallible tendency to fall) (Bg. 15.16 15.18)
o Spirit Soul never merges in the Supreme Soul even after liberation spirit soul
remains fragmental
o Spirit soul vs Supersoul (Theory of Reflec on)
The theory of reflection can be applied to the Supersoul, who is present in each
and every individual body and is known as the Paramatma
He is different from the individual living entity.
When the sky is reflected in water, the reflections represent both the sun and
the moon and the stars also.
The stars can be compared to the living entities and the sun or the moon to the
Supreme Lord.
The individual fragmental spirit soul is represented by Arjuna, and the Supreme
Soul is the Personality of Godhead Sri Krishna.
(d) Soul is never equal to Supersoul Established by:
Theory of reflection (as explained above)
If they are equal-position of instructor and instructed, holds no value
Thus Lord Krishna is Arjuna is living entity
who is the forgotten soul deluded by Maya

Text 2.14
THEME: Tolerate duali es One should not abandon religious duties due to bodily inconveniences or
transformations because:
Nonpermanent appearance and disappearance of happiness and distress are like appearance and
disappearance of summer and winter seasons
They arise from sense perception
Learn to tolerate them without being disturbed

Page 11 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 12
Chapter 2

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF TEXT 2.14


Prescribed duties are essential for spiritual advancement
They fulfill material desires in a regulated means, and thus gradually detach one from the bodily
concept of life, and allow him to rise to the platform of knowledge

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.14


(a) and Great heritage brings great responsibility in the matter
of proper discharge of duties

(b) Basis of Tolera ng Duali es


Knowledge of illusion They know that dualities arise only from sense perception
Higher goal Focus on path of liberation
(c) Examples of tolera ng dual es
Early morning bath in Month of Magh (winter season)
Women cooking in May/June
To fight as a religion even with relatives if needed
Renounced order of life which is full of austerities Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu renouncing
wife and mother (2.15)

Text 2.15
THEME: Focus on the higher goal of libera on and overcome duali es of happiness and distress

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF TEXT 2.15


Krishna now mentions for the first time a spiritual goal, liberation. By performing our prescribed
duties (Karma), we obtain knowledge, jnana which is a prerequisite for liberation

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.15


(a) Eligibility for libera on from material bondage
Steady in prescribed duties Anyone who is steady in his determination for the advanced
stage of spiritual realisation
Tolerates One who can equally tolerate the onslaughts of distress and happiness
(b) Examples of Tolerance for the purpose of a higher goal
First example: Renounced order of life Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu renounces wife and
mother, at an early age for the preaching mission
o Sannyasa is a painstaking situation but one who is serious, surely adopts this order in
spite of all difficulties (difficulties usually arise from having to sever family relations)
Second example: Arjuna is also advised to persevere his duties even at the cost of fighting

Page 12 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 13
Chapter 2

SUMMARISED THEME 2B:


VISION OF SEERS OF TRUTH (2.16 2.25)
Vision by those who view the world based on scriptures. Shown by 4 points:
1. Clear vision helps one avoid lamentation on bodily platform (2.16)
No death for soul and no endurance for the body
o This implies Kauravas cannot escape death even if Arjuna does not kill
2. One can see that no sin is involved in such violence because (2.17 2.20)

And with knowledge of soul and body


3. Change of body is compared to change of dress (2.22)
4. No weapon can kill or harm the soul (2.23 2.24)

Text 2.16
THEME: This verse gives the vision of seers of truth It is the beginning of instruction by the Lord to the
living entities who are bewildered by influence of ignorance
Of the non-existent (material body) there is no endurance
Of the eternal (the soul) there is no change

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.16


(a) Difference between ma er (body) and spirit
Body Modern science admits that the body is changing at every moment
Spirit Spirit soul exists permanently despite all changes of body and mind
All opinions agree This conclusion is established by all classes of seers of truth both
Impersonalists and personalists
Supporting Reference Ref. Vishnu Purana -
existent and non-existent refer only to spirit
and matter
(b) Influence of ignorance Living entities are bewildered and identify themselves with the body or
mind. Two kinds of ignorance/misgivings are:
Identifying with matter
Identifying oneself as God
(c) Removal of ignorance It involves:
Re-establish relationship Re-establishment of the eternal relationship of the worshiper and
worshipable
Correct understanding of duality Consequent understanding of the difference between the
part and parcel living entities and the Supreme Personality of Godhead

Page 13 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 14
Chapter 2

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.16


(d) Understanding the nature of the Supreme
One can understand by through study of oneself, the difference between oneself and the
Supreme being understood as the relationship between the part and the whole
Supreme has been accepted as the source of all emanations in the Vedanta sutras and the
Srimad Bhagavatam
o Living entities belong to the superior nature (Ref. Bg. 7.5)
o Although there is a difference between energy and energetic, the energetic is
accepted as the Supreme and energy or nature is accepted as the subordinate
o This implies the living entities are always subordinate, j

(e) Purpose of Bhagavad-gita


To drive away all ignorance (Refer to second point of this purport)
Enlightenment of all living entities for all time to come

SUMMARISED THEME 2C
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SOUL (2.17 2.25)
1. Eternally an individual (2.12) identity and part and parcel of the Supreme
2. Soul is unborn (2.21) and does not take birth
3. Soul is indestructable and eternal (2.18) and therefore never dies
4. Soul is immeasurable (2.18) It is too small to be measured by any material means
Ref. Svetasvatara Upanisad 1/10,000th tip of a hair (2.17 purport)
5. Soul never undergoes changes
Soul is steady (2.20) does not undergo six changes like the body
Immutable (2.21 & 2.25)
o Never changes like matter - Unlike body which goes through six changes (2.25
purport)
o Never become God - Soul always remains atomic to Infinite Supreme (2.25 purport)
Cannot be cut, burnt, dried or wet (2.23)
Immovable, unchangeable, everlas ng and eternally the same (2.24)
6. Posi on of soul
Situated in the region of the heart (2.17 & 2.22 & Mundaka Upanishad)
Present everywhere (Sarva-Gata) (2.24) Living entities are also present in sun and fire
7. How to perceive the soul
Soul is invisible and inconceivable (2.25) No human experiements can conceive the soul
Symptom of the soul
The only proof for the soul Vedic scriptures Sru (2.25 purport)
8. Influence of soul Pervades entire body (Mundaka Upanishad)
o Analogy: Like sun pervades entire universe and maintains, similarly light of soul
maintains the material body
o Analogy: Active principle of medicine spreads all over the body
9. Effect on life airs on the soul Soul is surrounded by 5 kinds of life airs
Hatha Yoga helps in liberation

Page 14 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 15
Chapter 2

Texts 2.17 2.18


COMMON THEME: The soul cannot be killed and the body cannot be saved from death. Therefore Arjuna
should not refrain from the necessity of war
This implies that the Kauravas cannot escape death even if Arjuna does not kill

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 2.17

(a) Essence of purport


(b) Symptom of the soul I
This consciousness is spread all over the body e.g. one can experience the pain and
pleasures of the body
Each and everybody is the embodiment of an individual soul, one cannot perceive the pains

(c) Size of the soul Ref. Svetasvatara Upanisad


It is one ten-thousandth (1/10,000th) of the tip of the hair
This is a spiritual atom smaller than the material atom
This spark is the basic principle of the material body
(d) Ref. Mundaka Upanisad 3.1.9 Explains the measurement of the atomic spirit soul
Size The soul is atomic in size and can be perceived by perfect intelligence
Life airs Atomic soul is floating in five kinds of airs (prana, apana, vyana, samana, udana)
Position The soul is situated within the heart and spreads its influence all over the body
o Opinion of scientists Because the measurement of the atomic soul is beyond their
power of appreciation, they foolishly assert that there is no soul
Purification of soul When the soul is purified from the contamination of the five kinds of

(e) Influence of soul all over the body


Material body minus consciousness equals a dead body
Two analogies to explain this:
o Active principle of medicine spreads all over the body, similarly the current of the
spirit soul is felt all over the body as consciousness
o Like the sun pervades the entire universe and maintains it, similarly the light of soul
maintains the material body
Conclusion Consciousness is not due to any amount of material combination and cannot
be revived by any material administration
(f) Vedic science vs odern science on the soul The heart is the seat of all energies of the body
Vedic science
o Individual soul is present in the heart along with the Supersoul, and therefore all
energies of the body are emanating from the heart
Modern science
o It accepts the important of red corpuscles and the heart as the seat of all energies
o But it cannot ascertain that the source of energy is the soul
(g) Never mistake atomic soul to be all-pervading Vishnu-ta va
Constitution of atomic soul is admitted in all Vedic literatures and is also felt in the practical
experience of any sane man
Only an insane man can think of the atomic soul as all-pervading Vishnu-ta va

Page 15 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 16
Chapter 2

(h) Analogy to compare soul and Supersoul


Such atomic particles of spirit whole are compared to sunshine molecules
The fragmental parts of the Supreme Lord are atomic sparks of the rays of the Supreme
Lord, called by the name or superior energy
(i) Hatha-yoga and purifica on of soul
Purpose of Hatha-yoga This is meant to control the five kinds of life airs:
o Not for material benefit
o But for liberation of minute soul from the material atmosphere
How this control is practiced By different sitting postures

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 2.18


(a) Body:
Body is perishable by nature may perish immediately or after a hundred years
Basis of acquiring material bodies
o
o Practical application: Observance of religious principles should to utilized to elevate
because one acquires the
(b) Soul:
Soul as indestructible The soul is too minute to be seen by the enemy what to speak of
being killed
Soul as immeasurable It is too small to be measured
(c) How does this verse help Arjuna to overcome lamenta on and material compassion
Because the living entity cannot be killed
Nor can the material body be saved for any length of time
(d) The Spirit soul is important, not the body because
As soon as the spirit soul is out of the body, the body begins to decompose
Ref. Vedanta Sutra: Analogy The living entity is qualified as light, because of being the part
and parcel of the Supreme light
(e) Prac cal applica on for Arjuna based on this verse:
He is advised to fight
Not sacrifice the cause of religion for material, bodily considerations

Texts 2.19 2.21


COMMON THEME: Krishna reiterates the same points of the body and soul from different angles in these
verses

Text 2.19
THEME: The soul can neither kill nor is killed

Page 16 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 17
Chapter 2

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.19


(a) Living en ty is never killed, when the body is hurt by weapons
The soul is too small to be killed by any material weapon
Nor is the living entity killable because of spiritual constitution
(b) Immortality of soul Does not encourage killing of the body (Refer to Summarized Theme 2D)
Prac cal applica on: Immortality of soul does not encourage animal slaughter
Killing of body without authority is abominable
(c)
Arjuna was engaged in killing for the principle of religion and not whimsically

Text 2.20
THEME: Clearly delineates the eternality of the soul
This verse is like quoting sastra to support the opinion of Krishna, because the Katha Upanisad also
mentions a similar passage
For the soul there is neither birth nor death
He has not come into being, does not come into being and will not come into being
He is unborn, eternal, ever existing and primeval

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.20


(a) Soul as steady vs Body as temporary
Body undergoes 6 changes like birth, growth, sustenance, by-products, dwindling & death
- (Steady) which implies that the soul does not undergo these six changes
(b) Prac cal proof that soul never becomes old Old man in same spirits as young man
(c) Percep on of soul by consciousness :
Analogy: Sun covered by clouds and light is the symptom
(d) Two kinds of soul (Ref. Katha Upanishad) Anu (infinitesimal) and Vibhu (infinite)
(e) Difference between consciousness of the soul and the Supreme
Supreme Soul knows past, present and future; individual soul is prone to forgetfulness
(f) The rela onship between Krishna and Arjuna
Krishna is the fountainhead of the Supersoul and Arjuna is the atomic soul forgetful of his
real nature
Therefore Arjuna needs enlightenment by Krishna
(g) Who can understand the glories of the soul (Ref. Katha Upanishad)
Only one free from all material desires and lamentations and by the grace of Supreme
(h) Similar passage like this verse is found in Katha Upanisad
One word differs i.e.

Text 2.21
THEME: The soul is never killed
How can a person who knows that the soul is indestructible, eternal, unborn and immutable kill
anyone or cause anyone to kill

PLEASE NOTE:
heme 2
Page 17 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 18
Chapter 2

SUMMARISED THEME 2D
DOES THE IMMORTALITY OF THE SOUL RECOMMEND V
(a) Suppor ng Reference Ref. Vedic Injunction (2.19 Purport) Never commit
violence to any living entity
(b) Criteria to use violence
Killing the body of anyone without authority is abominable and is punishable by the law of
the state as well as the law of the Lord
Violence has proper utility under authority (2.21 Purport) No sinful reaction
(c) Who decides the proper u lity a man situated in complete knowledge knows how and where to
apply a thing for its proper utility
(d) Analogy:
Justice of Peace Ref. Manu Samhita (for details study 2.21 purport)
Surgeons knife (for details study 2.21 purport)
(e)
He was killing for the principle of religion, not whimsically
When Krishna orders violence, it is for Supreme justice
For administration of justice, so-called violence is permitted because anyway the soul
cannot be killed

Text 2.22
THEME: Krishna gives an analogy: For the soul, death is simply a change of clothes
and Drona will lose their current bodies, which are the
source of enjoyment Krishna establishes that they will get fresh bodies

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.22


(a) Opinion of modern scien st on change of body
They accept the continuous changes of the body which appears from boyhood to childhood
to youth to old age
They accept the heart as the source of all energies, and we also say that the soul is present
in the region of the heart
(b) How transference of atomic soul to another body is made possible
Grace By the grace of the Supersoul
Desires and past deeds Supersoul fulfils the desires of the soul like a friend
Supporting References Soul and Supersoul are compared to two friendly birds sitting on
the same tree (Ref. Mundaka and Svetasvatara Upanisads)
(c) Cause of changing bodies
Forgetfulness of servant-master relationship by the atomic soul with the Supersoul

Page 18 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 19
Chapter 2

(d) Analogy of two birds explained


One of the birds (atomic soul) is captivated and eating the fruits of the tree
Other bird (Krishna) simply witnesses the activities of his friend (atomic soul)
Although they are friends one is still the master (Krishna as Supersoul) and the other is
servant (atomic soul)
How to become free from all lamentations By voluntary surrender unto the master bird or
unto Krishna, the Supreme spiritual master
o If somehow one turns his face to Krishna and knows His glories, at once he becomes
free from all anxieties
(e) How does this verse help Arjuna to overcome lamenta on and material compassion
Arjuna should be happy to kill the bodies of grandfather and teacher in a righteous fight so
that they can be cleansed of all reactions and get fresh bodies (fresh garments)
One who lays down his life on the sacrificial alter or in the proper battlefield, is at once
cleansed of bodily reactions and promoted to a higher status

Texts 2.23 2.25


COMMON THEME: Men ons more quali es of the soul
These verses reiterate a principle Krishna has already established. Generally repetition is considered
proper in Sanskrit literature only when used for emphasis. Krishna thus repeats Himself to remove all
doubts about the soul s eternality

Texts 2.23 2.24


COMMON THEME: The individual soul is eternally the atomic par cle of the spirit whole
The soul is unbreakable and insoluble (2.24)
Can never be cut into pieces by any weapon, nor moistened by water (2.23)
Soul can neither be burned nor dried (2.24)
Nor burned by fire, nor withered by the wind (2.23)
Soul is eternally the same He is everlasting, present everywhere, unchangeable, immovable (2.24)

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.23


(a) Different kinds of weapons none of which can affect the soul
Made of earth, water, fire, air, ether etc
Example of fire weapons Nuclear weapons
(b) Failure of to explain the following points They cannot explain:
How the individual soul came into existence simply by ignorance
How the individual soul got separated from the original Supreme Soul
(c) Correct understanding of the posi on of the soul:
The individual soul is eternally a separated part of the Supreme Soul
Being atomic individual souls eternally, they are prone to be influenced by illusory energy
Thus they become separated from the Supreme Lord
o Analogy: Just like sparks of a fire, although one in quality of the fire are prone to be
extinguished when out of the fire
Ref. Varaha Purana Living entities are eternally separated parts and parcels

Page 19 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 20
Chapter 2

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.23 cont


(d) PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Arjuna became liberated by
the knowledge received by Krishna, but he never became one with Krishna

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.24


(a) What is established by the quali es given in this verse
Individual soul is eternally the atomic particle of the spirit whole
He remains the same atom eternally, without change
(b) This verse refutes the monis c theory (Mayavada)
Spirit soul is insoluble Thus can never merge into Impersonal Brahman but always remains
unchangeable, eternal individual
What about impersonal liberation The atomic soul may prefer to remain as a spiritual
spark in Brahmajyo
Destiny of intelligent souls They enter the spiritual planets to associate with the Supreme
Personality of Godhead
(c) Importance of the word - All-pervading

They are present in water, air, land or even in fire


Prac cal applica on:
o Sterilization by fire is refuted here, because the soul cannot be burned by fire
o Living entities are also present in the sun with suitable bodies

Text 2.25
THEME: Further quali es of the soul Soul is invisible, inconceivable and immutable

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF TEXT 2.25


As the soul is beyond the range of ordinary perception, it cannot be understood by direct
empiric methods alone. We must therefore understand the soul on the basis of Vedic wisdom

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.25


(a) Soul as invisible The soul is too small to be seen even by the most powerful microscope
(b) Soul as inconceivable
No-one can establish the existence of the soul by human experimental efforts
sru (Vedic wisdom)
o Example of understandings based solely on superior authorities and beyond the
capacity of experiment
To know the existence of on
(c) Soul as immutable This establishes the stability of the conception of the soul
Never changes like matter Unlike body which goes through six changes
Never becomes God The soul always remains atomic to the infinite Supreme

Page 20 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 21
Chapter 2

Text 2.26
THEME: Bauddha-vada Even if you reject the soul, still there is no cause for lamentation; Krishna addresses
Arjuna as -

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.26


(a) History This verse indicates that such philosophers existed even at the time when Krishna spoke
Bhagavad-gita
(b) Examples of philosophies in this category
Buddhists
They maintain that life symptoms take place at a certain
mature condition of material combination
Modern material scientists and materialist philosophers They think the body is a
combination of physical elements and life symptoms develop at a certain stage by
interaction of physical and chemical elements
Science of Anthropology
Many pseudo-religions fashionable currently and nihilistic non devotional Buddhists sects
(c) How does this verse help Arjuna to overcome lamenta on and material compassion
No lamentation for loss of chemicals e.g. modern scientific warfare
Also if there is no rebirth, there is no fear of sinful reactions
(d) Significance of Sarcasm to Arjuna, such philosophy is not expected from an Aryan
because such philosophies leave aside Vedic wisdom

Text 2.27
THEME: Karma-vada One has to take birth according to his activities in his past lives and die after finishing
his term of reactions
Thus death generates no loss in this natural cause of events
Thus this verse helps to dispel the lamentation based on the illusory bodily concept of life

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.27


(a) Unnecessary violence is not encouraged Cycle of birth and death does not support unnecessary
slaughter, murder and war
(b) But violence is an inevitable factor But at the same time, violence and war are inevitable factors
for law and order (e.g. Battle of Kurukshetra is an inevitable event by will of Supreme)
(c) Prac cal Applica on:
No need to fear the death of relatives because fighting was his proper duty as a ksatriya
No need to fear sinful reactions because He did not deserve to break the law; He was simply
carrying out the will of the Supreme

Text 2.28
THEME: Death generates no loss, irrespec ve of the philosophy followed; therefore there is no cause of
lamentation
All created beings are unmanifest in their beginning
They are manifest in the interim state
They become unmanifest again when annihilated

Page 21 of 46
Bhagavad-gita Notes 22
Chapter 2

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.28


(a) Srila Prabhupada establishes that the loss of body is never a cause of lamenta on
Whether you accept the existence of the soul or not
(b) If you do not accept soul
Then the body changes from unmanifest to manifest to unmanifest
Conservation of energy and matter is maintained thus there is no reason to lament
Analogy: Skyscraper (study purport skyscraper manifests from earth and goes back into
the earth)
(c) If you accept soul
Analogy: Then the body is like a dress
o Or like a dream (e.g. flying in the sky or sitting on the chariot as a king)
o Nobody laments for the change of dress or situations of a dream
(d) Vedic wisdom encourages self-realization on the basis of non-existence of the material body

Text 2.29

THEME: Krishna says that the idea that there is no distinct soul is merely the creation of groping philosophers
whose insufficient minds are bewildered by the imperceptible and amazing soul
Some look on the soul as amazing
Some describe him as amazing
Some hear of him as amazing
Others, even after hearing about him, cannot understand him at all

FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORT 2.29

(a) Different types of people who misunderstand the soul and find it amazing
Those who find this fact too amazing that the same soul in magnitude and quality is the
cause of varieties of species (Biggest to the smallest)
Those who are too engrossed in gross material conception and sense gratification
o Subject of soul is too subtle to be understood by men with a poor fund of knowledge
and who are not austere
Some who accept the soul but
o Misguided as acceptance of the Supersoul and atomic soul to be equal in magnitude
(b) Easiest Process of Understanding the Soul
Accept Bhagavad-gita as given by the Supreme Personality of Godhead
It requires great penance and sacrifice to accept Krishna as the Supreme Personality of
Godhead
Only possible way is by the causeless mercy of a devotee

Text 2.30
THEME: Conclusion of Jnana sec on (2.11 2.30) Factually soul is the indestructible living entity within the
body, therefore there is no need of lamentation

Page 22 of 46

You might also like